Plastic vs. Aluminum Spine Boards: Which One Should You Buy?

In an emergency situation , the spine board acts like a lifeline.. This tool is absolutely necessary in case of spinal immobilization. But which material will be suitable? Plastic or aluminium? The materials you choose aren't just about pricing, but are about long lastingness , performance as well as patient care.Mobimedical Supply is concerned about the budget as well as patient care. So understanding the differences is a must. This decision revolves around balancing weight , durability and cost for best performance.

The Dominator: Plastic Spine boards

• Strength and Reliability

Plastic boards, often made with high-density polyethylene (HDPE), are extremely strong. They will not bend under a heavy load, but repeated use may eventually cause them to crack. Even a basic plastic board can hold up to 500 pounds safely, and many bariatric models, or those designed for heavier patients, accommodate significantly more than that — up to more than 1,000 pounds or 1,200 pounds. The high load-bearing capacity of this stretcher is essential with larger patients. 

• Impervious to the Elements 

Plastic is non-porous. Human sentence: Its surface, therefore, is not touched by blood, body fluids or cleaning materials, but instead sheds them. This makes them easy to decontaminate. Because they are totally radiolucent (X-ray transparent), plastic boards show up crisp and clear in X-ray pictures. This means technicians can take diagnostic images without moving the patient off the board — a crucial factor in preventing movement of the spine after a possible trauma.

• Thermal and Weight Advantage 

Plastic stays relatively temperature neutral. Unlike metal, which is highly conductive (and therefore dangerously hot in the sunshine and freezing cold in the depths of winter). In addition, plastic boards are lightweight. For most riders, a typical plastic board is a mid-range weight, between 15 and 18 lbs. Decreasing the weight will make it easier for E.M.T.s and first responders to tote. That’s why using these plastic boards has become standard across most industries. 

The Use of Aluminum Spine boards

•  Durability & Portability

Aluminum Boards are very durable and light. They are usually made with an aluminum shell that provides the highest level of impact protection possible against plastic in some cases. They have a unique and innovative design. They typically come with a longitudinal split. Rescue personnel can "scoop" or lift the patient off the ground in a split second, without having to do a log roll of the patient. This provides the opportunity to treat patients with suspected pelvic and hip fractures in a safe manner.

• Challenges When Working with Aluminum Material

One challenge is that aluminum is not radiolucent, meaning a patient’s movement from the aluminum spine board to the gurney must occur if you want them to get the X-Ray of their injuries, which increases the potential for additional patient injury. The other challenge is that aluminum is a very good thermal conductor. It has the opportunity of causing significant thermal injury on the skin of a patient. Also, because of the weight of the aluminum frame, a typical aluminum spine board weighs more than 25 lbs.(11.3 kg.) as opposed to plastic frames, making longer carries of the aluminum board significantly more challenging.

Comparative Study

Which One Should You Buy?

Your purchase is often determined by the environment under which you work and most important ,the budget. 

• Busy EMS units , hospitals and fire departments must choose the plastic spine board. They are hygienic , radiolucent as well as lighter for daily usage.Over 90% of the US ambulances rely on this as they are versatile and budget friendly.
• For specialized rescue , confined space operations or water rescue, always use the aluminium one as they have the ability to load a patient safely without rolling which is essential in tight or hazardous spaces

Final Words

During an emergency situation every second is invaluable. So when choosing the right spine board , consider your requirements. Regardless of your choice , selecting a reliable partner like Mobimedical supply helps you to get the high-quality tool customized for your needs. Patient safety should be your utmost priority. 

Choose Wisely , Choose Mobimedical Supply

Our Products

• MOBI Evac Sled -Ideal for confined spaces, the smooth, lightweight MOBI board secures patients easily and compacts for storage.

• 6F Spine Board -Durable, X-ray compatible MOBI spine board is MRI/CT-scan safe and latex-free for versatile medical use.

• Pediatric Spine Board -MOBI spine board made of durable plastic, X-ray translucent, works with head immobilizer, includes straps.

• MOBI Pro Oversized White Slider Board -Durable, lightweight MOBI board has smooth surface, optimal handles, thin profile for easy storage.