Plaster of Paris: Squeeze, But Not Too Hard!

Orthopedics. 2022 Jan-Feb;45(1):e57-e61. doi: 10.3928/01477447-20211101-01. Epub 2021 Nov 8.

Abstract

Plaster of Paris (PoP) has been the predominant treatment option for most acute and chronic orthopedic conditions. Water immersion significantly decreases the PoP bandage strength. Moreover, concerns have been raised about the possibility of breaks in PoP splints and cast failures once solid. The current study was designed to account for the increase in weight associated with increased PoP layers. The authors hypothesized that by controlling for weight variation as layers increased, they could determine the number of layers of PoP bandage that truly results in optimal mechanical properties. They assessed whether adequate plaster weight control while increasing layers could improve the mechanical properties of the splint. [Orthopedics. 2022;45(1):e57-e61.].

MeSH terms

  • Bandages
  • Calcium Sulfate*
  • Casts, Surgical
  • Humans
  • Orthopedics*
  • Splints

Substances

  • Calcium Sulfate