Overview

Fracture casting is a common method used to treat bone fractures. Also known as casting or immobilisation, it involves the application of a rigid or semi-rigid cast made of materials such as plaster or fibreglass to immobilise and support the fractured bone during the healing process. The cast helps in aligning and stabilising the broken bone to prevent movement that could hinder proper healing. Casting is typically done after the initial reduction or realignment of the fracture, and it can remain in place for several weeks or months, depending on the type and location of the fracture. Regular monitoring and follow-up visits with a healthcare professional are necessary to ensure proper healing and to determine when the cast can be safely removed.

Though a fracture cast restricts the movement of the injured body part, it also helps avoid further injury. Often, a doctor may also suggest a splint and a cast together, depending upon the type of surgery. The splint helps stabilise the condition and lower the swelling; a complete fracture cast keeps the broken bones in place and avoids further injury. Today different types of casts are available depending on the type of injury.

Types of Fracture Casts

Several types of fracture casts are used based on the specific requirements of the fracture and the patient's condition. Here are some common types of fracture casts:

- Plaster Casts - Plaster cast for fracture is one of the oldest and most highly used forms of cast for fracture. The cast is made by mixing the plaster of Paris with water accordingly to make an appropriate solution for making the cast. The plaster cast was the only option in olden times, but today, many replacement options based on the form of injury are available. A plaster cast is easy to use and make. The procedure involves covering the injury with webbed material, followed by covering the injury with multiple layers of cotton. Finally, the paste is applied over these layers to make the cast.
- Fibreglass cast- Fibreglass casts are lighter and more durable than plaster casts. They are made of a fibreglass material impregnated with a water-activated resin. These casts are available in various colours and can be removed with a specialised cast saw.
- Spica cast- A spica cast immobilises both the trunk and one or more limbs. It is commonly used for hip or femur fractures in young children or infants.
- Synthetic Casts Synthetic Cast is another modern-day option to keep an injury safe and covered. The cast is made from fibreglass, or hard plastic, to protect the injury from dangerous situations. The cast is comfortable on the skin and allows a doctor to take an x-ray easily of the injury. A synthetic cast can be completely waterproof by adding a liner beneath the cast. The procedure might be time-consuming and heavier for the pocket as well.

Reasons for a Fracture Casting

Mentioned below are some of the situations that require a fracture casting for healing:

- Restricted Movement- An injury to the bone or cartilage is a sensitive issue. The individual needs to restrict the movement of the injured bone for a speedy recovery. Keeping the injury open might not allow the person to restrict movements. In such situations, fracture casting is the right choice. It helps to keep the affected body part in a certain position and avoid any external injury that can deteriorate the situation.
- Avoid Dislocation- A fracture casting is helpful to avoid dislocation in case of injury to the bone. The fracture helps to keep the bones and injured cartilage intact in a certain position. It helps in quick recovery and makes the healing process easier.
- Support Unstable Joints- An injury can disturb the joint location and lead to instability of joints. It can lead to extreme pain while performing any activity. Hence, a fracture cast helps to keep the injury covered while supporting the joints to stay in place.

Guidelines to Keep the Fracture Cast Safe

Mentioned below are the tips and guidelines that help to take care of a fracture cast:

- Avoid Applying Pressure on the Cast to avoid further injuries.
- Wrap the Cast with plastic before bathing.
- Keep the cast dry and clean.
- Avoid stuffing of the cast by placing any objects inside.
- Do not try to scratch the skin inside the object with a sharp object.
- Contact your doctor immediately if a strange smell emits from the Cast.
- Do not try to remove the Cast yourself or without a doctor.

Conclusion

Fracture casting is a helpful procedure to keep the injured bone or cartilage in the proper position for quick recovery and healing of the injury. The casting is available in different materials today, depending on the injury. Multiple factors are considered before deciding the casting to be used.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Ortho doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Reference Links

https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/first-aid-for-fracture/
https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-casts
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/15211-casts--splints