Avoiding Complications and Optimizing Outcomes of Cast Treatment in Pediatric Orthopaedics

Despite recent advances in orthopaedics, casting remains an important and commonly used nonsurgical treatment modality for fractures and pediatric orthopaedic conditions. Casts and splints are used to maintain or obtain the alignment of a body segment. Over the past few decades, with the growing popularity of internal and external fixation techniques, there has been a loss of training emphasis on the art and science of cast treatment, resulting in a loss of awareness of cast-related complications. Knowledge of appropriate cast materials, the correct cast technique, postapplication care, and risk factors for cast-related complications is critical. These strategies emphasize the importance of precision and patient-specific care in pediatric orthopaedics.