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Topic:
Casting
Issue:
Category:
Title:
Coated Cast Saw Blades Decrease Blade Temperature During Cast Removal
Author:
Stevens, Michael R.E. MD; Kirk, Andrew M. MD; Collofello, Brandon S. MD; Muffly, Brian T. MD; Prusick, Vincent W. MD
Journal:
Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics
Date:
January 2024
Reference:
44(1): p 63-67, DOI: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000002531
Level Of Evidence:
# of Patients:
70 casts (30 plaster and 40 fiberglass)
Study Type:
Experimental, Laboratory study
Location:
Not specified
Summary:
The study investigates the effect of cast saw blade material, wear, and cast material on blade temperature during cast removal. The results demonstrate that tungsten-disulfide coated blades produce lower blade temperatures compared to stainless-steel blades, especially when used on fiberglass casts.
Methods:
The study involved removing short arm plaster and fiberglass casts using new or worn stainless-steel or tungsten-disulfide coated blades. Blade temperatures were continuously measured with a thermocouple. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test to compare mean maximum temperatures.
Exclusions:
Worn stainless-steel blades were excluded from the fiberglass cast group due to complete erosion of the cutting teeth.
Results:
For plaster casts, worn stainless-steel blades generated significantly higher temperatures than new blades (63.7°C vs. 51.4°C, P = 0.003). New stainless-steel blades produced significantly higher temperatures on fiberglass casts (95.9°C) compared to plaster casts (51.4°C, P < 0.001). Coated blades produced lower temperatures compared to stainless-steel blades during fiberglass cast removal (76.6°C vs. 95.9°C, P = 0.016). Worn coated blades and new coated blades had similar temperatures during plaster cast removal (P = 0.347) and fiberglass cast removal (P = 0.653).
Conclusions:
Tungsten-disulfide coated blades were more effective in minimizing blade temperature during cast removal, especially for fiberglass casts. The study suggests the limited use of stainless-steel blades to prevent excessive heat buildup and thermal injury during the process.
Relevance:
Limitations:
Perspective: