Anxiety Reaction in Children During Cast Removal using Oscillating Saw versus Cast Shear - A Randomised, Prospective...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Pain and Anxiety Management

Background:

• Pediatric cast removal can induce anxiety.
• Comparing patient anxiety levels between different cast removal methods is crucial for improving patient experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare anxiety levels in children during cast removal using an oscillating saw versus cast shears.
• To evaluate the impact of noise and fear on pediatric patients during orthopedic procedures.

Main Methods:

• A randomized prospective study involved 102 children undergoing cast removal.
• Anxiety was measured via heart rate monitoring and the Children's Fear Scale (CFS).
• Participants were divided into groups using either an oscillating saw or cast shears.

Main Results:

• The oscillating saw group exhibited significantly higher heart rates during cast removal (p<0.05).
• The oscillating saw generated noise levels exceeding 80 dB (mean 103.3 dB).
• Children in the cast shear group reported significantly lower fear levels (p<0.05).

Conclusions:

• High noise levels from oscillating saws are linked to increased anxiety in pediatric patients.
• Cast shears offer a less anxiety-provoking, simple, and cost-effective alternative for cast removal, especially in anxious children.