Improvised Hydration Bladder Air Splint: A Wilderness Case Report

This case report describes the use of a hydration bladder as an improvised air splint for a left forearm fracture in an austere environment. The literature regarding the use of air splints in the prehospital and wilderness environments is scarce, and it does not appear that this technique has been previously described in the literature. Given the widespread use of hydration bladders, the adjustable nature and overall comfort of the splint, and the anecdotal success of this technique without any complications or harm to the patient, the authors believe this is an important improvised splinting option to add to the quiver of any outdoor enthusiast or wilderness medical professional.