Casts
Casts (medicine)
Casts (pronounced: kasts) are medical devices used to immobilize, stabilize, and/or support a broken bone, or to correct deformities. They are typically made of plaster or fiberglass.
Etymology
The term "cast" comes from the Old Norse word 'kasta', which means to throw or spread over. This is in reference to the way the material is spread over the injured area to provide support and immobilization.
Types of Casts
There are several types of casts used in medicine, including:
- Plaster Casts: These are traditional casts made from plaster of Paris. They are heavy, but mold well to the body and are less expensive than other types of casts.
- Fiberglass Casts: These are lighter and more durable than plaster casts. They are also more breathable, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
- Walking Casts: These are specially designed to allow the patient to walk while the bone heals. They are often used for foot or lower leg fractures.
- Air Casts: These are inflatable casts that provide adjustable compression. They are often used for sprains and other soft tissue injuries.
Related Terms
- Splint: A splint is a device used to support and immobilize a body part in a similar way to a cast. However, splints are typically used for less severe injuries.
- Orthopedic Cast: This is another term for a cast used to immobilize a broken bone or correct a deformity.
- Fracture: A fracture is a break in a bone. Fractures are one of the most common reasons for a cast to be applied.
- Immobilization: This is the process of holding a body part still to prevent movement. Immobilization is often necessary to allow a broken bone to heal.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Casts
- Wikipedia's article - Casts
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