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Univalve split plaster cast for postoperative immobilization in foot and ankle surgery
Lawrence A DiDomenico1, Paul Sann
1Division of Podiatry, Department of Surgery, St. Elizabeth Health Center, Youngstown, OH, USA. ld5353@aol.com
Abstract:
Casting is an important part of the postoperative treatment in foot and ankle surgery. Applying a split plaster cast allows for swelling while maintaining surgical correction and alignment. Resecting approximately a 1-in. portion of the plaster cast dorsally and anteriorly maintains stable structural support of the cast while relieving the pressure caused by swelling. We describe a technique for applying a plaster below the knee cast, with a univalve dorsal split, to provide support, while allowing for edema and access to anterior postoperative dressings.
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