A protective Gutter splint and/or Tip Protector is applied to the fused joint until the pins are removed.
Active and Passive Range of Motion exercises are initiated to all uninvolved joints, including tendon gliding exercises with the splint on.
Pin care protocol is supervised.
6 weeks:
Scar massage and desensitization is initiated. If the patient is felt to have clinical union, protective splinting is continued for light activities, and the patient may return to light duty work.
8 weeks:
Progressive strengthening exercises are initiated. Return to light work duties is recommended without splinting. This may be modified or delayed depending on whether an intercalated bone graft was used or if there has been a delay in clinical union.
12 weeks:
The patient returns to work with no restrictions and no further splinting.
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