Intrinsic plus (antiderformity) splint is used for what purpose?

• A. positioning after trauma/edema
• B. immobilize fracture
• C. treat carpal tunnel
• D. nerve release surgery

Answer: (A)

Intrinsic plus (antideformity) splinting is all about preventing contractures by positioning the hand to keep the intrinsic muscles lengthened and the extensor mechanism balanced during healing. It places the metacarpophalangeal joints in flexion while the PIP and DIP joints are extended. This posture preserves web space, keeps collateral ligaments taut, and reduces the risk of develop­ing clawing or flexion contractures as swelling and immobilization subside. That’s why it’s used after trauma or in the presence of edema—to maintain a functional hand posture while the tissues heal.

It’s not aimed at immobilizing a fracture in a specific fracture pattern, and it’s not the positions used to treat carpal tunnel or after nerve release surgery, which require different splinting goals.