Work

Waterproof Casts Maintain Reduction and Decrease Unplanned Cast Changes

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: This study compares clinical outcomes of waterproof vs standard casting in pediatric patients with nonoperative upper and lower extremity fractures. Methods: and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare categorical variables, and generalized linear models were used to compare continuous variables. Results: = .157). Conclusion: Waterproof casts are associated with reduced unplanned cast changes and shorter casting duration without increased complications or failure when compared to standard cotton liners. Additionally, waterproof and standard cotton liners are equally effective at maintaining reduction of displaced forearm fractures in pediatric patients. These findings support the use of waterproof casting as a safe and convenient alternative to standard cotton-lined casts for pediatric fractures. Key Concepts: (1)Waterproof lined casts maintained reduction, measured by anteroposterior and lateral angulation and translation, of displaced pediatric forearm fractures similar to standard cotton-lined casts.(2)Waterproof lined casts required significantly fewer unplanned cast changes when compared with that of standard cotton-lined casts.(3)The rate of cast failure and in-cast displacement was equivalent between waterproof casts and standard casts in pediatric patients. Level of Evidence: III.

Source: Journal of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America

DOI: 10.1016/j.jposna.2025.100302

Authors: Alexis L. Clifford, Aaron Jennings, Emily Boschert, Catalina Baez, Stephanie Ihnow, Jessica McQuerry

Institutions: University of Florida Health, University of Florida

Language: English

Topic: Bone fractures and treatments

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,500