University:
Western Sydney University
Course:
MEDI 2003 | Clinical Sciences 2
Academic year:

2024
Views:

62

Pages:

2
Author:

Mariam A. A.

Plastering and Slings Indications for a Plaster of Paris (POP) cast. • • • • • It is made out anhydrous calcium sulphate that is a chalky white powder, which is made by removing water from gypsum. Immobilize an injured region and prevent further damage. Acts a splint and immobilise the injured region -> provides analgesia. Maintains good position of fracture till healing is complete. To maintain position after surgical correction of deformities. Indications for a plaster back slab. • • • • • • To temporarily immobilize the fractured limb while awaiting definitive surgery. Until review of the fracture in a follow up clinic. When an excessive amount of swelling is anticipated, where full casts, due to excessive swelling might cause a compartment syndrome. When there is high clinical suspicion of fracture but not obvious on Xray e.g., Scaphoid. soft tissue injuries – e.g., repaired lacerations over joints, ankle ligament injuries. plaster slab is usually for distal radial or ulnar fractures - Colles or Smiths fracture. Common complications of a Plaster of Paris cast and discuss their clinical implications. Procedure • see CPS guide. Early complications of fractures. • • • • Damage to surrounding structures. Compartment syndrome. Hemarthrosis. If open fracture -> osteomyelitis, fat emboli, blood loss -> shock. Late complications of fractures. • • • • • • • Ossificans. Joint stiffness. Myositis. Malunion contractures. Avascular Necrosis Growth plate injury -> growth disturbances. Common faults in the application of a cast • • • • • • • • Uneven application of under cast padding or creases. Uneven application of plaster where the plaster is concentrated over the fracture site more than at other sites. Failure to allow adequate ranger of movement in the joints proximal and distal to the cast. Plaster being too bulky and heavy. Plaster is too tight. Changing the position of the joint after applications. (Especially ankle/wrist). Not maintaining position of immobilisation while the cast is curing. Applying cast too slowly.