Orthopedic cast

Orthopedic cast
A short leg cast with a fibreglass top layer being used to treat a fractured foot
Other namesBody casts, plaster cast, surgical cast
Orthopedic cast, fibreglass cast
Fibreglass long leg cast immobilizing the leg for a tibial fracture

An orthopedic cast, or simply cast, is a shell, frequently made from plaster or fiberglass, that encases a limb (or, in some cases, large portions of the body) to stabilize and hold anatomical structures—most often a broken bone (or bones), in place until healing is confirmed. It is similar in function to a splint.

Plaster bandages consist of a cotton bandage that has been combined with plaster of paris, which hardens after it has been made wet. Plaster of Paris is calcined gypsum (roasted gypsum), ground to a fine powder by milling. When water is added, the more soluble form of calcium sulfate returns to the relatively insoluble form, and heat is produced.

2 (CaSO4·½ H2O) + 3 H2O → 2 (CaSO4.2H2O) + Heat[1]

The setting of unmodified plaster starts about 10 minutes after mixing and is complete in about 45 minutes; however, the cast is not fully dry for 72 hours.[2]

Bandages of synthetic materials are also used—often knitted fiberglass bandages impregnated with polyurethane, sometimes bandages of thermoplastic. These are lighter and dry much faster than plaster bandages. However, plaster can be more easily moulded to make a snug and therefore more comfortable fit. In addition, plaster is much smoother and does not snag clothing or abrade the skin.[3]

  1. ^ "The History and Function of Plaster of Paris in Surgery". Smith and Nephew.
  2. ^ Schmidt, V.E.; Somerset, J.H.; Porter, R.E. (1973). "Mechanical Properties of Orthopeadic Plaster Bandages". Journal of Biomechanics. 6 (2). Elsevier: 173–185. doi:10.1016/0021-9290(73)90086-9. PMID 4693147.
  3. ^ Adkins, Lisa M (July–August 1997). "Cast changes: synthetic versus plaster". Pediatric Nursing. 23 (4): 422, 425–7. PMID 9282058.