Main Entry: Thom·as splint

Pronunciation: \ˈtäm-əs-\

Function: noun

: a metal splint for fractures of the arm or leg that consists of a ring at one end to fit around the upper arm or leg and two metal shafts extending down the sides of the limb in a long U with a crosspiece at the bottom where traction is applied

[Thomas splint illustration]

Thomas, Hugh Owen (1834–1891), British orthopedic surgeon. Thomas is considered by many the founder of modern orthopedics in Great Britain. He introduced a splint for immobilization of the hip, a knee splint for immobilization of the knee, and a caliper splint for ambulatory patients.