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Topic:

Casting

Issue:

​

Category:

​

Title:

Efficacy of DIY Cast Covers: An In Vivo Study

Author:

Udall, Dallyn DO; Zimmerman, Remy BS; Bast, Nicholas DO; Schlechter, John DO

Journal:

Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics

Date:

March 2024

Reference:

44(3): p 164-167, DOI: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000002590

Level Of Evidence:

II

# of Patients:

10

Study Type:

Prospective comparative study

Location:

Not specified

Summary:

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a DIY cast cover technique, using a double-bag method sealed with tape, to prevent water absorption in casts. The study was conducted with human subjects to assess its real-world efficacy.

Methods:

Procedure: Each volunteer received one short arm and one short leg cast. After the casts were dry and stable, they were re-applied, covered with a double-bag technique using a trash bag and Duct tape, and submerged in water for 2 minutes. The weight change after submersion was measured and compared to the fully submerged casts without protection. Data Analysis: Comparison of post-submersion and full-submersion weights was conducted using the Mann-Whitney test.

Exclusions:

Not specified

Results:

Water Absorption Prevention: The DIY cast cover prevented 96.8% to 99.9% of water absorption, with an average of 99.6% across all subjects (P<0.0001). Adverse Effects: No adverse effects were reported.

Conclusions:

The double-bag and Duct-tape method is highly effective in preventing water absorption in casts. This cost-effective and simple technique demonstrates nearly complete prevention of external water absorption, with no reported complications.

Relevance:

Limitations:

Perspective:

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