MYNI's traction: a reverse dynamic traction and concomitant ambulatory aid for patients with knee flexion deformities.

Fixed flexion deformity of the knee is one of the commonest deformities that occur as a secondary complication of various knee arthropathies. In developing countries such as India, where walking is the primary, preferred and most feasible mode of transport, the secondary complications following a fixed flexion deformity of the knees pose a serious threat to functional independence. External splinting techniques have been in use for many years for preventing and correcting fixed flexion deformities, but most of the splinting methods commonly used have disadvantages. Static splinting leads to a reduction in the range of movement and muscle strength due to prolonged immobilization; traction techniques restrict the patient to bed and necessitate hospitalization. Wedge casting can lead to a posterior subluxation of the tibia when used over a long period. Thus, the idea was to design an orthosis that serves the purpose of improving knee range of movement without the above-mentioned complications, at the same time being portable and comfortable to the client, concomitantly allowing them to be ambulant. Accordingly this article presents a new method in splinting that helps in these multiple ways.

Adjustable aesthetic aeroplane splint for axillary burn contractures.

Managing axillary burns with an Aeroplane Splint has been known for its effectiveness for years. However, poor compliance in using the various models of currently available aeroplane splints leads to an inadequate outcome, because of the discomfort produced not only in wearing but also while ambulating within the community. In developing countries like India the biggest barrier to environmental accessibility is the presence of multiple permanent structures like narrow thoroughfares, entry/exit sites of public transport, and narrow aisles. These pose a challenge to rehabilitation professionals while prescribing large splints. An attempt to target these problems was made by Manigandan et al, but aeroplane splints, even the one described by them does not deal with the major problem of aesthetic appeal as identified by many of our patients. Accordingly this article presents a new model of the aeroplane splint with innovative changes, focussing on aesthetic appeal while maintaining all the benefits of the splint described by Manigandan et al.