Name of the Procedure:

Unlisted Procedure, Casting or Strapping

Common Names: Casting, Strapping, Splinting

Technical Terms: Orthopedic Casting, Strapping

Summary

This procedure involves the application of a hard cast or strap to immobilize a part of the body, usually after an injury like a fracture, sprain, or strain. The cast or strap helps maintain proper alignment and stability to assist in healing.

Purpose

Medical Condition: Fractures, severe sprains, strains, and other musculoskeletal injuries.

Goals/Outcomes: To immobilize and support the injured area, allow proper healing, and prevent further injury.

Indications

• Recent fractures or broken bones
• Severe sprains and strains
• Soft tissue injuries requiring immobilization
• Post-surgical immobilization
• Support during the healing process

Patient Criteria:

• Evidence of an orthopedic injury
• Surgeon or physician recommendation
• Inability to stabilize the injury through other means

Preparation

• Follow doctor's instructions, such as avoiding lotions or oils on the affected area.
• Inform the healthcare provider of any allergies or medical conditions.
• X-rays or other imaging tests may be required to determine the extent of the injury.

Procedure Description

1. Positioning: Patient’s injured limb is positioned correctly to ensure proper alignment.
2. Padding: Soft padding or a stockinette is applied to protect the skin.
3. Casting Material: Cast materials, such as plaster or fiberglass, are soaked in water and wrapped around the padding.
4. Molding: The cast is molded to fit the contour of the limb and left to harden.
5. Strapping: In cases where a strap is needed, adhesive straps are applied to support or compress the area without restricting movement entirely.

Tools/Equipment: Casting materials (plaster, fiberglass), padding, water, adhesives.

Anesthesia: Typically none; local anesthetic might be applied if minor pain relief is required.

Duration

Generally takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the injury and the area being treated.

Setting

Can be performed in an outpatient clinic, emergency room, or hospital setting.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon or physician
• Nurse or medical assistant

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Skin irritation, swelling, itching, and discomfort.
• Rare Risks: Compartment syndrome, pressure sores, ulcers, or cast breaks.

Management: Regular monitoring, adjustment of the cast or strap as necessary, and prompt medical attention if severe symptoms occur.

Benefits

• Stabilizes the injured area for proper healing.
• Reduces pain by immobilizing the injured part.
• Speeds up recovery.

Realization of Benefits: Typically within a few weeks to months, depending on the injury.

Recovery

• Follow-up appointments for cast inspection and adjustments.
• Keep the cast dry and clean.
• Follow activity restrictions to avoid reinjury.
• Use of crutches or other mobility aids as instructed.

Expected Recovery Time: Varies from a few weeks to several months.

Alternatives

• Splinting: Less permanent and adjustable.
• Bracing: May offer more movement flexibility.

• Surgical Intervention: In cases where external immobilization is insufficient.

  Pros and Cons:

• Splints and braces are less invasive but might not provide as much stability.
• Surgery offers precise correction but comes with its own risks and longer recovery.

Patient Experience

During Procedure: Patient may feel wetness and slight warmth as the cast material hardens. Minor discomfort from positioning.

After Procedure: Some discomfort, swelling, or itching around the cast area. Pain should typically be manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Pain Management: Ice packs, elevation, and prescribed pain medication. Regular check-ins for adjustments to ensure comfort.