Orthopedic Casting Removal: Quick Techniques

Abstract

Treating a fracture with a cast made of plaster of Paris or fiberglass to immobilize the injured tissue has been used for many years and is still the leading practice in the orthopedic field [1]. However, there are few published resources that assist health care providers in easing this process. The improper use of the cast saw may lead to different types of skin injuries that are seen more often in patients with fragile skin such as children and elderly patients. Although applying casting and cast removalare thought to be low risk standard procedures, improper usage of the cast saw can potentially lead to injuries that are thermal or abrasive (or both) in nature [2]. Friction between the cast and the saw blade causing blade temperatures above 50°C results in thermal injury to dermal tissue [3]. Abrasive injuries occur when downward pressure is applied to the cast saw while the skin is taut or immobile [2]. The purpose of this paper is to explore an easier casting removal technique of short-leg and long-arm casts aiming to report a novel technique that is easier for the individual removing the cast and will lead to fewer complications of cast removal.