FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where can I buy fiberglass cast tape?
You can buy fiberglass cast tape from many online and in-store retailers. But you can find popular brands like Delta-Lite Fiberglass Casting Tapes and Padding at AllegroMedical.com. This website has award-winning medical supply experts to answer your questions, a Best Price Guarantee, and extensive medical supplies and equipment inventory. In addition, Allegro Medical has provided 25 years of one-stop shopping.
How is cast tape applied?
Before applying the orthopedic casting tape on the broken limb, slide a tubular stockinette over it. The stockinette will wick sweat from your skin to avoid bacteria growth and other problems. Next, cushion between the limb and the fiberglass casting tape by wrapping it with cast padding generously around the limb. Since the fiberglass casting tape may make your hands sticky, put on some surgical gloves before starting the wrapping process.
You have a choice of using the dry or the wet technique. For example, with the dry technique, wrap the first layer of fiberglass cast tape in half strips around the limb before applying room temperature water to the fiberglass tape with your gloved hands. Then, wait a minute or two to allow it to set before applying the subsequent layers with the same technique. The main difference between the wet and dry techniques is the wet technique requires the cast technician to put water on the tape before application.
What other types of supplies are needed to make a cast?
Along with hard casting tape or soft casting tape, the other orthopedic casting supplies you will need to make a cast are the tubular stockinette, cast padding, room temperature water, exam gloves, and protective covering for the patient. Also, there are many casting tape colors available.
What are orthopedic casts made of?
Although plaster casts are still on the market, most consumers prefer orthopedic casts with a fiberglass or polyester composition. These materials are a lighter, synthetic substitute for plaster of Paris. Classified as a fiber-reinforced polymer, fiberglass contains tiny fibers of glass blended in a plastic matrix. As a result, the fiberglass orthopedic cast is more robust, flexible, and easier to clean than other cast materials. Polyester casting tape is breathable, comfortable, and adaptable to all body contours.
What is the difference between fiberglass casting tape and plaster cast tape?
Before the synthetic casts took over in popularity, plaster of Paris was the primary type of cast for several decades. Fiberglass, in particular, has surpassed plaster casts in use for setting and supporting broken bones in human limbs. However, plaster casts still get a fair amount of usage because they are less expensive and more moldable around certain areas. The primary advantage fiberglass cast has over plaster casting is that it is more waterproof. As a result, a fiberglass cast requires less maintenance because it doesn’t dissolve from exposure to water. Another significant advantage of fiberglass is it dries much faster than plaster. Also, its porousness allows doctors to take X-rays of the injury with the cast on.
How long will a cast need to stay on?
Along with the pain from a bone fracture, the inconvenience and irritation of wearing a fiberglass or plaster cast can be trying. However, be prepared to wear your cast for up to six weeks. Your doctor will give you detailed guidance on this matter. Also, you should consult your doctor if you lose sensation or if any part of your limb turns blue.
How is an orthopedic cast removed?
Removing an orthopedic cast is a medical profession’s chore, requiring a cast saw or ultra-sharp scissors. The specialized cast saw design allows it to easily solid fiberglass or plaster without any risk of cutting you. Typically, cast technicians use saws with a reciprocating or oscillating blade. They make the cuts up and down to allow the blade to cool between cuts. Although there is no risk of harm to you, cast technicians will sometimes put a slight barrier between the saw and your skin for visual reassurance.
MEDICAL ADVICE DISCLAIMER
The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, charts, and any other material on this site, is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of medical guidance provided by your physician. No information on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified medical professional about your condition or circumstances before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.