FTP1.3 Woodcast is Ecologically Sound and Tolerated by Majority of Patients

Abstract

Abstract Aim NHS England has set itself the task of delivering a “Net Zero” National Health service by 2040. It is incumbent upon all health care practitioners to work towards this goal. Orthopaedic surgeons are no exception. Distal radial fractures are the most common fractures sustained by the adult population. However, studies are shortcoming on individual patient experience. The aim of this study was to assess the patient’s satisfaction and outcomes with woodcast in the conservative management of distal radius fractures compared to the standard synthetic cast. Methods For all patients managed with woodcast in our unit, we undertook a structured questionnaire that included the The Oxford cast experience score, the numerical pain scale and qualitative open-ended questions about individual patient experience at the time of injury and six weeks after. Results 30 patients were initially managed with woodcast. 80% of patients tolerated woodcast for the full duration of their treatment. Of these, 20% didn’t tolerate woodcast and had their casts removed within 48 hours. Of the remaining, 79.1% were satisfied about woodcast comfort, 66% were very satisfied about woodcast weight, 70% were satisfied with temperature and sweatiness, 62.5% were very satisfied about the smell/odour, and 75% were satisfied about the level of support woodcast provided. During their treatment, 83.3% of patients rated their pain as five or less. Conclusions For those who completed their treatment in woodcast, none required any further intervention or utilised the open appointment because of ongoing wrist problems. In conclusion, when woodcast is tolerated, patients’ satisfaction and outcome levels were good.