Non-adhesive Bandages

Sling bandages: localization and technique

A sling bandage is a strip of fabric or wide bandage whose ends are longitudinally cut on both sides (forming so-called "tails"), while the central part is left intact to cover the wound. The main rule for secure fixation is crossing the ends when tying.

The direction of fixing the "tails" strictly depends on the anatomical region:

• Nose: the upper ends are brought down below the auricles and tied at the neck, while the lower ends are directed upward, passing above the ears, and secured at the back of the head.
• Chin: used for injuries to this area or jaw fractures. The upper ends are taken to the occipital region, and the lower ends are raised strictly vertically and tied at the vertex.
• Occipital region: the ends are secured on the forehead, as well as under the chin or on the anterior surface of the neck.
• Parietal region: the ends of the bandage are securely fastened under the lower jaw.

T-shaped bandages

This type of bandage is the optimal choice for securing sterile pads in anatomically complex areas of the lower torso. Main indications include wounds in the perineal, sacral, and coccygeal regions.

Application algorithm:

1. A wide strip of fabric or bandage is prepared.
2. The material is cut from one end, resembling the preparation technique for a sling bandage, to obtain fixing straps.
3. The uncut (middle) part is placed directly over the injury area (e.g., the perineum).
4. The free ends are tied to a pre-prepared bandage belt wrapped around the patient's waist.

Tubular net bandages

Tubular net bandages (such as the popular brand "Retilax") are produced as a seamless elastic stockinet wound on a roll. Their main advantage is high elasticity, which allows them to securely hold the dressing material without impairing blood circulation.

Important rule: the tubular bandage is worn over gauze pads strictly in a single layer.

To ensure adequate compression, bandages of various diameters are available. The choice of size depends on the patient's age and the volume of the specific anatomical area:

• No. 1 and 2: intended for fingers.
• No. 3 and 4: used for extremities (hand, foot, forearm, lower leg).
• No. 5 and 6: suitable for securing dressings on the head and torso.

Adhesive and plaster dressings

If bandaging is impossible or impractical, fixation using adhesive materials is applied.

Adhesive tape fixation Carried out using strips of adhesive tape. The strips are laid across the sterile pad applied to the wound like a bridge. The ends of the tape are firmly adhered to the surrounding healthy skin.

Adhesive fixation (liquid adhesives) Special medical adhesives are used for this method — Kleol or BF-6, as well as a piece of gauze.

• Technique: The edges of healthy skin around the perimeter of the wound are smeared with liquid adhesive. Then a piece of gauze is applied on top, which must completely cover the dressing material across its entire width.
• Key nuance: The securing gauze must extend a few centimeters beyond the edges of the lower (sterile) layer, ensuring wide overlap and reliable adhesion to the adhesive-treated skin.

Class and exam questions

What else to study on this topic

• Features of transport immobilization for jaw fractures using a sling bandage
• Specifics of wound care and dressing in the sacral and perineal regions
• Age-related considerations in selecting tubular net bandages for children and adults
• Pharmacological differences and indications for the use of Kleol and BF-6 adhesives

Other topics in "CHAPTER 10. GENERAL ISSUES IN TRAUMATOLOGY"

Prepared by WhiteCoat Pro faculty in accordance with the medical school curriculum. For educational purposes only.