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Plaster casts for fractures come in multiple types suited for differing fracture locations and severities. All these casts immobilize the area to ensure proper healing. The following are the common types of plaster casts available on the market.
This is a plaster cast made entirely of plaster, providing a rigid and heavyweight structure to the fractured body part. Regular PTFE coated casts are water-resistant and don’t allow water to penetrate. They are widely used because they are inexpensive and readily available in the medical market. However, it is worth noting, that plaster casts tend to be harder and stinkier when wet, which worsens discomfort when they come in contact with skin or clothes.
The difference in waterproof casts from non-waterproof is in the material used. Waterproof casts use specialized materials like fiberglass or polymer composites instead of wettable plaster. Waterproof casts don’t allow water to permeate and therefore, can be used safely in water or during heavy sweating. They are significantly light and more comfortable. Also, they are more expensive than regular casts.
The plaster of Paris cast is a popular offline and online choice among business owners in the medical supply industry. It's made from fine gypsum powder and is exceptionally moldable when wet. This adaptability allows for custom fits and supports that cater to individual needs. Once set, the cast offers a sturdy, supportive structure. This type of cast is particularly useful in orthopedic settings as it provides a balance between rigidity and weight, ensuring patient comfort while facilitating effective healing.
As the name suggests, regular Pop casts are made from a roll of plaster bandage soaked in water and adhered to the mesh. It serves as a keycasting material that is budget-friendly and highly accessible. Although heavy and occasionally damp, regular casts are ideal for everyday fractures. Their user-friendliness enables quick application, making them a staple in multiple orthopedic clinics.
A cast for fractures has different key features that guarantee fracture immobilization and healing. Though these features differ from one cast to another, plaster casts have features that suit business buyers located on the Alibaba.com platform.
Plaster casts are highly durable, able to withstand regular wear and tear, and pressure exerted by the body part they are conservatively protecting. The rigidity of the cast protects as the injury heals and aids in maintaining the cast’s integrative support longer. It is, however, worth noting that they are not waterproof, so exposure to wet items should be avoided to enhance their durability.
The radiopacity feature allows for visibility in X-rays, ensuring that medical professionals monitor healing progression without removing the cast. This is vital for maintaining the integrity of the immobilization over time and aids in making timely decisions regarding further treatment.
One of the reasons plaster casts are favored across multiple medical and ortho clinics is their moldability and conformability. When applied, wet plaster can be easily molded to the body contours. This helps in ensuring even distribution of pressure across the injured body parts. This feature increases comfort and aids the healing process.
Unlike other casting materials, plaster casts set without heat. The non-exothermic feature minimizes the risk of burns. This makes it safer for clients who have sensitive skin or are at risk of multiple skin irritations.
Plaster casts are way affordable compared to modern casting alternatives such as fiberglass. This is particularly beneficial for clinics operating on a tight budget and for patients who do not have extensive insurance coverage. Furthermore, plaster casts are accessible because they are readily available in medical markets.
Since plaster casts are a requirement for patients with fractures, they have widely accepted use cases across healthcare and orthopedic hospitals and clinics. These casts are vital for fracture stabilization and create a healing environment. Below are common scenarios where plaster casts are commonly used.
PATIENTS with complex fractures like multiple breaks benefit from plaster casts because of their excellent immobilization properties. In complex fractures where the bone might shift during healing, a plaster cast provides rigid and confining support to prevent further injury. This feature helps in aligning bones properly during the healing process. Complex fractures are not commonly isolated; they also accompany other injuries. Therefore, a plaster cast's durability and conformability make it ideal when protecting multiple body parts.
Children often experience greenstick or hairline fractures from normal play activities. These are not severe fractures so, lightweight waterproof casts are often used to treat them. Waterproof casts allow a child to continue normal activities, including swimming. A water-resistant cast helps in prolonging its lifespan and preventing complications like skin irritations due to moisture, especially in active and adventurous children.
Simple fractures include hairline or transverse bone breaks. They are less severe injuries with a low tendency to affect the surrounding tissues. Such fractures are often treated with regular Plaster of Paris casts because they offer the necessary immobilization for healing. Simple fractures do not typically require advanced casting materials since the injury is less severe. Therefore, ordinary pop casts are often considered a budget-friendly option for immobilization.
Fractures around joints include Colles and Pott's fractures. They require careful immobilization to prevent damage to adjoining ligaments and tendons. Therefore, a plaster cast's rigidity and conformability ensure that the fractured area is well stabilized. This minimizes joint mobility during the healing process and reducing long-term complications.
Buyers should consider several key factors when purchasing plaster casts for fractures in bulk. Here are these key factors business owners should consider.
The quality directly impacts the cast's durability and support properties specifically required in fracture management. When selecting casts, business owners should look at trusted brands that use premium-quality gypsum-based plaster. This ensures the casts acquired by buyers are sturdy, secure, and supportive for all injuries.
Different kinds of casts serve different purposes. For instance, waterproof casts are suitable for active patients, while regular POP casts are ideal for simple fractures. Likewise, children's casts should be made using skin-friendly materials to cater to children’s delicate skins. Keeping these factors in mind will ensure business owners stock casts that have a direct positive impact on patient comfort and healing.
Casts are available in multiple size options to accommodate diverse demographics. This includes adults, teenagers, and children. Fractures commonly occur at different body parts. Therefore, specific casts per patient are necessary. Buyers should ensure those stocks have both standard adjustable sizes to cater to a wider audience.
This is an important consideration for business owners stocking plaster casts for doctors in different clinics. They should ensure that the casts they are buying have an easy and smooth application process for the medical practitioners working in the hospitals to apply promptly. Further, if they are looking for modern casting alternatives, they should ensure that newer materials offer easy application just like traditional plaster.
The skin frequently comes in contact with the cast. Therefore, when purchasing casts, buyers should ensure they are made of skin-friendly, non-irritating materials. Also, they should look for hypoallergenic options for people with multiple skin sensitivities. This will enhance comfort for patients reducing discomfort and irritation.
A1. Regular plaster casts are not waterproof. They become heavy and smelly when wet, which causes discomfort. However, waterproof casts are made from specialized materials like fiberglass. They do not allow water to penetrate. This makes them suitable for patients who frequently swim or are active. Waterproof casts are more expensive and lighter than regular plaster casts.
A2. The life of a plaster cast is generally around 4 to 6 weeks depending on the severity of the fracture and individual healing. However, exposure to moisture significantly decreases the lifespan of a plaster cast since it will cause deterioration and increase the risk of skin irritation. When exposed to water, buyers should consider replacing it with a waterproof cast.
A3. Unfortunately, plaster casts cannot be reused. When a plaster cast has served its purpose, it must be safely disposed of to prevent hygiene and health risks. These risks include skin irritations and infections. However, fiberglass or waterproof casts may be reusable under specific circumstances. This mostly depends on the nature of the subsequent injuries.
A4. Maintaining a plaster cast requires regular checking for signs of wear or damage. This includes looking for dampness, cracks, or loosened parts. Patients should avoid getting regular plaster casts wet to prevent deterioration. Moreover, the cast should also be kept clean to avoid skin irritations. If there are any major maintenance issues, other bigger owners should ensure they go through proper maintenance procedures.
