Glass fibre versus non-glass fibre splinting bandages.

We have assessed the current range of synthetic splinting bandages, comparing glass with non-glass fabrics and plaster-of-Paris. Physical and mechanical tests have been carried out and the opinions of patients, volunteers and orthopaedic staff were recorded. Modern bandages have some better properties than standard plaster bandage but do not conform as well, are more expensive and potentially more hazardous. However, non-glass bandages are lighter, less brittle, more radiolucent and less hazardous than glass fibre bandages and are preferred by both patients and applicators.