Vol. 23, No.
2 February 2001 V 157
CE Article #3 (1.5 contact hours)
Refereed Peer Review
FOCAL POINT
★ The type of bandage used for
external coaptation is often
dictated by the animal’s injury;
therefore, veterinarians should be
familiar with the required
materials and techniques for
applying various bandaging.
KEY FACTS
■ Tape stirrups can help prevent
bandage slippage, p. 158.
■ The Robert-Jones bandage is
designed to immobilize the limb,
whereas the modified Robert-
Jones bandage provides partial
immobilization, p. 159.
■ Permanent contracture of the
carpus is possible with the carpal
sling but can be avoided by
allowing limited extension within
2 to 4 weeks after surgery, p. 160.
■ Only the Ehmer sling, which
encircles the body, provides
limb abduction, p. 161.
■ Less cast padding is used under
splints to minimize motion
between the splint and skin,
p. 162.
Bandaging in Dogs
and Cats: External
Coaptation*
The Animal Medical Center Kansas State University
New York, New York MaryAnn Radlinsky, DVM, MS
Amelia M. Simpson, DVM
Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists
Houston, Texas
Brian S. Beale, DVM
ABSTRACT: Indications for external coaptation include protecting wounds, immobilizing frac-
tures, and decreasing postoperative limb swelling. The type of bandage selected for external
fixation is often dictated by the animal’s injury. This article discusses some of the most com-
monly used bandages, including the Robert-Jones and modified Robert-Jones bandages, rigid
and soft casts, carpal and Ehmer slings, and metal and fiberglass splints.
I
n veterinary medicine, many different bandaging options are available. To
provide the best external coaptation for a given injury, practitioners should be
aware of the indications and contraindications for using these bandages. This
article reviews the most commonly used bandages, including the Robert-Jones
and modified Robert-Jones bandages, soft and rigid fiberglass casts, Ehmer and
carpal slings, and metal and fiberglass splints. The indications, contraindications,
required materials, and application techniques for applying these bandages are
discussed.
ROBERT-JONES BANDAGES
The bandage used most often in veterinary orthopedics is the Robert-Jones
bandage and its modifications.1,2 The Robert-Jones bandage should be used for
certain wounds, fractures, or dislocations at or distal to the elbow and stifle.
This bandage is indicated when severe inflammation is expected in a patient
with a stable, nondisplaced, or nonarticular fracture but is also used if surgery is
delayed in patients with an unstable, displaced, or articular fracture.1 The goal of
the Robert-Jones bandage is to provide temporary support of a fracture through
immobilization while maintaining even compression over the entire limb.1–3
*A companion article entitled “Bandaging in Dogs and Cats: Basic Principles” appeared
in the January 2001 (Vol. 23 No. 1) issue of Compendium.
158 Small Animal/Exotics Compendium February 2001

TABLE I
Bandage Types and Materials
Type Materials Needed
Robert-Jones bandage Two pieces of 0.5- to 1-inch porous adhesive tape and tongue depressor for stirrups
Nonadherent dressing (if indicated)
One to three 1-lb rolls of 12-inch cotton
One to three rolls of 3- to 4-inch roll gauze
One to two rolls of 3- to 4-inch elastic adhesive tape
Modified Robert-Jones bandage Two pieces of 0.5- to 1-inch porous adhesive tape and tongue depressor for stirrups
Nonadherent dressing (if indicated)
Several rolls of 2- to 4-inch cast padding
One to three rolls of 3- to 4-inch roll gauze
One to two rolls of 3- to 4-inch elastic adhesive tape
Cast Rigid or fiberglass casting material
Nonadherent dressing (if indicated)
Two pieces of 0.5- to 1-inch porous adhesive tape and tongue depressor for stirrups
Several rolls of 2- to 4-inch cast padding
One to three rolls of 3- to 4-inch roll gauze
One to two rolls of 3- to 4-inch elastic adhesive tape
Slings
Carpal Nonadherent dressing (if indicated)
One roll of 2- to 3-inch cast padding
One roll of 2- to 3-inch roll gauze
Some 1-inch porous adhesive tape
One roll of 2- to 3-inch elastic adhesive tape
Ehmer Small amount of cast padding
One roll of 1- to 2-inch porous adhesive tape
Splints Mason metasplint or fiberglass splint
Two pieces of 0.5- to 1-inch porous adhesive tape and tongue depressor for stirrups
Nonadherent dressing (if indicated)
Several rolls of 2- to 4-inch cast padding
One to three rolls of 3- to 4-inch roll gauze
One to two rolls of 3- to 4-inch elastic adhesive tape

This bandage should not be used as primary fixation of
a fracture because the padding can loosen over time
and, therefore, it will not provide the rigid fixation
needed for fracture healing.1
Materials required include two pieces of 0.5- to 1-
inch white adhesive tape and a tongue depressor for
stirrups, a nonadherent dressing (if indicated), one to
three 1-lb rolls of 12-inch cotton, one to three rolls of
3- or 4-inch cling gauze, and one to two rolls of 3- or
4-inch self-adherent stretch tape (Table I).
Tape stirrups, which help prevent bandage slippage,
should be applied either to the medial and lateral sur-
faces of the leg or the dorsal/palmar or plantar surfaces
(Figure 1A). The stirrups should extend from the car-
pus or tarsus to approximately 3 to 6 inches distally
from the toes.1 A tongue depressor should be placed be-
tween the adhesive surfaces to help facilitate separation
of the tape near the completion of bandaging. Alterna-
tively, the tape can be stuck directly to itself. It is im-
portant to tab the ends first to allow easier separation at
the end. Cotton padding should be applied, starting
distally at the toes and working proximally to the mid-
femur/midhumerus (Figure 1B). The cotton should
continue to be unrolled proximally and distally, over-
lapping 50% per pass until sufficient bulk is achieved.1
The third and fourth digits must be visible to evaluate
limb swelling after bandage placement. Roll gauze
should be applied next, beginning with the toes, work-
ing proximally, and overlapping each pass by 50% (Fig-
ure 1C). The gauze layer should apply strong and even
pressure to compress the cast padding by 40% to 50%
but should not extend beyond the layer of cast pad-
ding. The tape stirrups should be separated and taped
proximally up the bandage. Finally, the outer layer

PRIMARY FIXATION METHOD ■ NONADHERENT DRESSING ■ BANDAGE PLACEMENT

Compendium February 2001 Small Animal/Exotics 159

Figure 1A Figure 1B Figure 1C Figure 1D

—The Robert-Jones bandage. (A) The distal ends of the tape stirrups should be folded to facilitate later separation. (B) A
Figure 1—
large amount of cotton padding is required to ensure immobilization and deliver even compression over the entire bandage. (C)
Roll gauze should be applied with strong even pressure and should compress the cotton padding by 40% to 50%. The tape stir-
rups should be separated and taped to the limb. (D) A self-adherent stretch tape has been applied to the outer layer.

should be applied in the same fashion as the first two
layers (Figure 1D); however, care must be taken to avoid
vascular compromise and swelling, which can occur if
the final layer is applied too tightly. The finished ban-
dage should be smooth in appearance (Figure 1D).
The primary difference between the Robert-Jones
bandage and modified Robert-Jones bandage, or soft
padded bandage, is the amount or type of padding
(Table I). The modified Robert-Jones bandage uses cast
padding instead of roll cotton and requires much less
padding during its construction, making it consider-
ably less bulky but still capable of providing compres-
sion and partial (as opposed to complete) immobiliza-
tion (Figure 2). The modified Robert-Jones bandage is
indicated when light compression is needed to reduce
soft-tissue swelling but is not advised for any injuries
that require rigid stability.1 The modified bandage is of-
ten used to minimize postopera-
tive swelling or provide temporary
stability to a limb before surgery.
CASTS
Rigid Casts
Using a rigid cast as a method of
fracture management is a viable
option in several instances.9–11 Case
selection is important in determin-
ing the type of cast to be consid-
ered. The fracture must be closed
—The modified Robert-Jones bandage
Figure 2—
and located below the elbow or sti-
is considerably less bulky than is the Robert-
fle and should be amenable to a Jones bandage.
closed reduction in which at least
50% of the proximal and distal fracture ends are in con-
tact. The bone should be stable in the cast. A cast should
be used if the fractured bone is expected to heal quickly
(e.g., fractures in young animals; greenstick fractures; radi-
al or tibial fractures with an intact ulna or fibula, respec-
tively). The cast must be used for the shortest amount of
time possible to achieve healing and minimize the possi-
bility of the patient developing fracture disease. Fracture
disease is characterized by chronic edema, muscle atrophy,
joint stiffness, and disuse osteoporosis. In extreme cases,
these changes can lead to permanent joint dysfunction. To
provide adequate stability for bone healing, the cast must
include the joint above and below the fracture.
Casting materials include two pieces of 0.5- to 1-inch
white adhesive tape and a tongue depressor for stirrups, a
nonadherent dressing (if indicated), several rolls of 2- to
4-inch cast padding, one to three rolls of 3- or 4-inch
cling gauze, one to two rolls of 3-
or 4-inch self-adherent stretch tape,
and rigid casting material (Table I).
With the fracture in reduction,
the bandaging material should be
applied the same as is done with a
modified Robert-Jones bandage ex-
cept with fewer passes of the cot-
ton roll. The casting material should
be applied over the cling gauze lay-
er. The manufacturer’s directions
can be followed for preparing the
casting material for application.
The material should be applied be-
ginning at the foot and continuing

PARTIAL IMMOBILIZATION ■ CAST SELECTION ■ FRACTURE DISEASE ■ TONGUE DEPRESSOR

160 Small Animal/Exotics Compendium February 2001

proximally, overlapping each layer SLINGS

by 50%. Two rolls of casting mate- Carpal Slings
rial may be needed to provide ade- The carpal sling, or carpal flex-
quate stability. Because creases can ion bandage, immobilizes the car-
cause sores on the skin, the surface pus. This bandage is used to main-
of the casting material must be tain the carpus in flexion after
consistently smooth. The cast tendon repair, thus relieving ten-
should be covered with self-adher- sion on the flexor tendons. This
ent stretch tape. A radiograph of sling can also be useful when mo-
the limb in the cast should be tion of the elbow or shoulder is
made to ensure that proper frac- Figure 3A desired without weight bearing af-
ture alignment was maintained ter repair of selected humeral and
during application. elbow fractures.
One benefit of using a cast is Construction of a carpal sling
that it can be bivalved (by cutting requires cast padding, 2- to 3-inch
it in half ) when strict immobiliza- gauze, 1-inch tape, and self-adher-
tion is no longer needed. One half ent stretch tape (Table I). The
can then be used as a splint for carpal sling should be applied
added support during the remain- with the carpus in flexion because
der of the fracture healing process. bandaging the extended carpus
will lead to bunching of the mate-
Soft Casts rials when the carpus is flexed.
Soft casts composed of woven Figure 3B Cast padding and gauze should be
glass fibers impregnated with a placed beginning at toe level and
polyurethane resin as the matrix are working upward to the middle of
a relatively new type of external the antebrachium (Figure 3A).
coaptation.11 After the material sets, The distal aspect of the third and
it remains somewhat elastic and re- fourth digits must remain exposed
silient to manual compression. Soft to allow monitoring for swelling.
casts can be used to protect joints After the gauze layer has been placed,
from excessive motion after joint flexion can be maintained by
surgeries (e.g., internal fixation of wrapping 1-inch tape in a circular
intraarticular fractures, ligament re- fashion around the paw and the
pair or replacement, reduction of distal radius. Another method of
joint luxations). In these cases, soft Figure 3C maintaining carpal flexion is by
casts are beneficial because they al- Figure 3——(A) The carpal sling is applied with the starting at the flexed portion of
low some joint movement while carpus in flexion to prevent the bandaging mater- the carpus and applying 3 to 4
protecting the repair. Soft casts are ial from bunching. (B) Adhesive tape can either figure-of-eight loops of 1-inch
also more advantageous than are be wrapped in a circular pattern from the paw tape (Figure 3B). Self-adherent
rigid casts because the former may to distal radius or in a figure-of-eight pattern as stretch tape should then be ap-
mitigate degeneration of cartilage shown. (C) Permanent contracture of the carpus plied over the entire bandage (Fig-
and lessen or prevent decreased can be avoided by lengthening the tape loops, ure 3C). Permanent contracture
range of motion and joint contrac- thereby decreasing the degree of flexion and al- of the carpus is possible. This can
ture that commonly occur with lowing partial extension of the carpus. be avoided by allowing limited ex-
joint immobilization.11 tension within 2 to 4 weeks after
Soft casts require the same basic materials needed for surgery by lengthening the 1-inch tape loops to enable
rigid casts. The manufacturer’s directions can be fol- partial extension.1
lowed for preparing the soft casting material for appli-
cation. As with a rigid cast, the material should be ap- Ehmer Slings
plied beginning at the foot and working proximally, The true Ehmer sling is a non–weight-bearing ban-
overlapping each layer by 50%. Adequate reinforce- dage of the hindlimb that is commonly used to treat
ment at the joints may be needed to ensure that the disorders of the coxofemoral joint.1,4–6 The Ehmer sling
cast is sturdy enough to hold its shape. is used to maintain closed reduction for craniodorsal

CASTING MATERIAL ■ MANUAL COMPRESSION ■ FIGURE-OF-EIGHT PATTERN

Compendium February 2001
Figure 4A Figure 4B
Figure 4E Figure 4F
coxofemoral luxations but can also be used following
surgical correction of coxofemoral luxations and to pre-
vent weight bearing after repair of acetabular and
femoral fractures. The Ehmer sling will maintain the
leg in a flexed position with the coxofemoral joint in-
ternally rotated and abducted. Internal rotation of the
hip will enable the femoral head to seat beneath the
dorsal rim of the acetabulum, and the abduction will
help maintain reduction of the coxofemoral joint by
forcing the femoral head into the acetabulum.1,5
The Ehmer sling should make a figure-of-eight pat-
tern around the distal limb and then wrap around the
body to maintain abduction, prevent the bandage from
slipping off the limb, and restrict motion of the coxo-
femoral joint. The Ehmer sling may be problematic for
a male dog because the encircling portion, although
cranial to the prepuce, can become soiled with urine
and cause irritation. A modified Ehmer sling does not
encircle the body and may slip off the cranial aspect of
the thigh. The modified Ehmer sling, which is basically
CLOSED REDUCTION ■ ACETABULUM ■ COXOFEMORAL JOINT ■ METATARSAL REGION
Small Animal/Exotics 161
Figure 4C Figure 4D
—(A) When applying an Ehmer sling,
Figure 4—
a few layers of cast padding should be placed
over the metatarsal region. (B) Tape (1- or 2-
inch) is wrapped around the metatarsals and
continued medially. (C) A twist is made in the
tape as it courses toward the medial aspect of
the stifle to keep the adhesive in contact with
the skin. (D) As the tape courses distally from
the lateral aspect of the thigh to the medial as-
pect of the hock, another twist in the tape is
required. (E) The modified Ehmer sling does
not encircle the body. The arrows indicate ar-
eas that owners should be instructed to careful-
ly monitor for swelling or rubbing. (F) A true
Ehmer sling encircles the animal’s body.
a non–weight-bearing sling, does not cause abduction
and allows movement of the coxofemoral joint.
A small amount of cast padding and 1- to 2-inch ad-
hesive tape are the only materials required for an Ehmer
sling (Table I). Two to three layers of cast padding
should be placed around the metatarsal/proximal pha-
langeal region (Figure 4A). The tape should then be
placed over the padding and around the metatarsal re-
gion (Figure 4B). With the leg flexed, the tape should
be continued up the medial aspect of the tibia, medial
to the stifle joint, and medially over the thigh muscle
with the adhesive surface of the tape always facing the
skin (Figure 4C). The tape should be continued from
medial to lateral over the quadriceps to pass distally
caudal to the stifle joint, and medial to the distal tibia
and hock and should pass under the plantar aspect of
the metatarsals, medially to laterally (Figure 4D). Two
or three wraps of tape should be continued in a similar
manner. This completes the modified sling (Figure 4E).
With the true Ehmer sling, the tape should be carried
162 Small Animal/Exotics
Figure 5A Figure 5B
—(A) The Mason metasplint can provide immobilization of the metacarpus and carpus. elbow will help keep the
Figure 5—
(B) The splint is applied between the roll gauze layers. (C) The bandage should extend beyond bandaging in place (Figure
the elbow to help it stay in place.
proximally, lateral to the stifle. The amount of tension
on this vertical portion will dictate the degree of abduc-
tion created by the sling. The tape should circle the ab-
domen cranial to the tuber coxae. Only one to three
circumferential layers should be needed (Figure 4F).
Owners should be instructed to check the bandage
twice daily for complications. Three areas in particular
should be pointed out as common locations for ban-
daging complications (e.g., swelling, rubbing). These
areas include the pez, caudal aspect of the stifle, and in-
guinal region. If a true Ehmer sling is used on a male
dog, the area at the cranial aspect of the prepuce should
be examined for sores.
SPLINTS
Mason metasplints, which are preformed, and molded
fiberglass cast splints are two of the most common types
of splints used by veterinarians. Before these splints are
placed, any existing wounds should be dressed. Tape stir-
rups should then be applied, followed by the application
of cast padding. Less cast padding is used than with a
soft padded bandage to avoid increased motion between
the splint and the skin.4,8 A “donut,” or layered cast
padding with a hole cut in the center, should be placed
over any bony prominence (e.g., accessory carpal bone,
olecranon, tuber calcanei). After one to two layers of
gauze are applied over the cast padding, the splint should
be placed on the limb. Another layer of gauze should be
applied over the splint, followed by an outer layer of ad-
hesive or elastic tape.
Mason Metasplints
The Mason metasplint is a preformed metal or plas-
BANDAGE COMPLICATIONS ■ LIMB POSITIONING ■ VALGUS DEFORMITY
Compendium February 2001
tic splint used to immobi-
lize fractures and disloca-
tions of the metacarpus and
carpus (Figure 5A), includ-
ing the distal radius and
ulna, carpus or tarsus, and
metacarpal or metatarsal
bones or phalanges.7,8 The
Mason metasplint will not
immobilize the proximal
radius and ulna or the el-
bow. The metal or plastic
shoe should approximate
the shape of the padded
limb (Figure 5B).7 Extend-
Figure 5C
ing the bandage above the
5C).7,8
Fiberglass Splints
Fiberglass splints are molded splints that can be ap-
plied laterally to the thoracic or pelvic limb or the cau-
dal aspect of the thoracic limb. The splint should ap-
proximate the shape of the limb to which it is applied.
It can be used to immobilize the elbow and stifle joints
and can stabilize less severe fractures of the radius, ulna,
tibia, and fibula.
Limb positioning is important during application of
a molded splint. The pelvic limb should be in a normal
standing position with the hock slightly flexed. The
thoracic limb splint should be applied with the carpus
in slight flexion (15˚) and deviated medially by 15˚.
Proper positioning of the thoracic limb is necessary to
prevent valgus deformity, which may occur because of
the normal laxity of the radial carpal joint or eccentric
growth of the radius and ulna in immature patients.7,8
There are several ways to apply a fiberglass splint.
Some veterinarians prefer to apply the splint directly to
the leg while the fiberglass is wet (Figure 6A). Others
prefabricate the splint either with it already wet or while
it is dry with the intention of wetting it immediately be-
fore placing it on the leg (Figure 6B). It should be noted
that fiberglass has a tendency to shrink slightly before it
sets. The gauze and the final protective layer may be ap-
plied before the fiberglass has completely hardened as
long as even pressure is maintained and no creases or
other deformities are made (Figures 6C and 6D).
BANDAGING AFTERCARE
All bandaging should be kept clean, dry, and intact.
Owners must examine the toes of their pet for signs of
swelling, maintain bandage integrity, and commit to
Compendium February 2001
Figure 6A Figure 6B
—(A) A temporary layer of cast padding will protect the bandage from moisture because the fiberglass splint is applied di-
Figure 6—
rectly to the leg. (B) Some veterinarians prefer to premeasure the length of the splint. (C) The gauze layer can be applied to the
soft cast as long as even pressure is maintained and no creases are made in the cast. (D) The protective layer should be applied
with even pressure, taking care not to deform the splint if it has not yet hardened.
bandage changes as scheduled. When the pet is out-
doors, a plastic bag can be placed over the limb to pro-
tect the bandage from environmental elements. Owners
should be instructed to return immediately for a bandag-
ing change if drainage or a foul odor is coming from the
bandaging, if loosening or other structural damage to the
bandage occurs, or if the animal shows signs of obsessive
licking or chewing at the bandaging. An Elizabethan col-
lar may be needed to eliminate the opportunity for the
pet to chew the bandaging.
REFERENCES
1. Decamp CE: External coaptation, in Slatter DH (ed): Text-
book of Small Animal Surgery. Philadelphia, WB Saunders
Co, 1993, pp 1661–1676.
2. Fossum TW, Hedlund CS, Hulse DA, et al: Small Animal
Surgery. St. Louis, Mosby, 1997, pp 706–708.
3. Knapp DW: Bandage techniques: Application of a Robert-
Jones bandage, in Bojrab MJ (ed): Current Techniques in
Small Animal Surgery. Philadelphia, WB Saunders Co, 1990,
pp 1295–1296.
4. Jones DGC: Bandaging techniques in orthopaedics in small
animals. Vet Annual 26:202–215, 1986.
5. Fox SM: External coaptation bandages: How and when to
use them. Vet Med 83(2):153–164, 1988.
6. Dean PW: Ehmer sling (figure-of-eight sling), in Bojrab MJ
(ed) Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery. Philadel-
phia, WB Saunders Co, 1990, pp 1296–1298.
7. Knecht CD: Principles and application of traction and coap-
tation splints. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 5(2):
177–195, 1975.
8. Lang DN, Bartels KE: Splinting techniques, in Bojrab MJ
(ed): Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery. Philadel-
phia, WB Saunders Co, 1990, pp 1304–1311.
9. Piermattei DL, Flo GL: Small Animal Orthopedics and Frac-
ture Repair, ed 3. Philadelphia, WB Saunders Co, 1997, pp
48–51.
BANDAGE PROTECTION ■ DRAINAGE ■
Small Animal/Exotics 163
Figure 6C Figure 6D
10. Akeson WH, Amiel D, Abel MF, et al. Effects of immobi-
lization on joints. Clin Orthop 219:28–37, 1987.
11. Rytz U, Aron DN, Foutz TL, et al: Mechanical evaluation of
soft cast (Scotchcast, 3M) and conventional rigid and semi-
rigid coaptation methods. Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 9:
14–21, 1996.
About the Authors
Dr. Simpson is affiliated with The Animal Medical Center,
New York; Dr. Beale with Gulf Coast Veterinary Special-
ists in Houston, Texas; and Dr. Radlinsky with the Depart-
ment of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine,
Kansas State University, Manhattan. Drs. Beale and
Radlinsky are Diplomates of the American College of Vet-
erinary Surgeons.
ARTICLE #3 CE TEST
CE
The article you have read qualifies for 1.5 con-
tact hours of Continuing Education Credit from
the Auburn University College of Veterinary
Medicine. Choose only the one best answer to each
of the following questions; then mark your an-
swers on the test form inserted in Compendium.
1. Tape stirrups
a. should only be used for the carpal and Ehmer sling
bandages.
b. should only be used on thoracic limbs.
c. help prevent bandage slippage.
d. are not needed for the modified Robert-Jones ban-
dage.
ELIZABETHAN COLLAR
164 Small Animal/Exotics Compendium February 2001

2. A Robert-Jones bandage should be used
a. as primary fixation of a fracture.
b. to provide temporary support of a proximal ra-
dius/ulna fracture through immobilization while
maintaining even compression over the entire limb.
c. to provide temporary support of a femoral neck
fracture through immobilization while maintaining
even compression over the entire limb.
d. to provide temporary support of a proximal humer-
al fracture through immobilization while maintain-
ing even compression over the entire limb.
c. flexion (90˚) and deviated medially by 15˚.
d. slight flexion (15˚) and deviated medially by 90˚.
10. During application of a molded splint to the pelvic
limb, the hock should be
a. flexed 120˚.
b. slightly extended.
c. extended as much as possible.
d. flexed slightly.

3. With the Robert-Jones bandage, the gauze layer

should compress the cast padding by ___%.
a. 10 c. 70 to 80
b. 90 d. 40 to 50

4. The primary difference between the Robert-Jones ban-

dage and the modified Robert-Jones bandage is
a. the number of outer layers.
b. that tape stirrups are not needed for the modified
Robert-Jones bandage.
c. the amount or type of cast padding.
d. that modified Robert-Jones bandaging has no inter-
mediate layer.

5. A carpal sling should be used for

a. rheumatoid arthritis in the carpus.
b. injury to the flexor tendons.
c. a carpal osteochondritis dissecans lesion.
d. brachial plexus avulsion.

6. The true Ehmer sling

a. is basically a non–weight-bearing sling that does not
cause abduction and allows movement of the coxo-
femoral joint.
b. maintains the leg in a flexed position with the coxo-
femoral joint internally rotated and abducted.
c. is comprised of the typical three layers of bandag-
ing material.
d. maintains the leg in a flexed position with the coxo-
femoral joint internally rotated and adducted.

7. The true Ehmer sling is indicated after the repair of

a. a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament.
b. a brachial plexus avulsion.
c. a craniodorsal coxofemoral luxation.
d. fractured metatarsal bones.

8. The Mason metasplint may be used for

a. a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament.
b. a fractured humerus.
c. a craniodorsal coxofemoral luxation.
d. fractured metatarsal bones.

9. The thoracic limb splint should be applied with the

carpus in
a. slight flexion (15˚) and deviated medially by 15˚.
b. slight extension (15˚) and deviated laterally by 15˚.