Cast removal induces a lot of anxiety in both the parent and the child, though it tends to be worse for the kids.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
This article will talk about what you need to know in preparation for cast removal.
Here are a few tips on the things you can do ahead of time to make the removal of a cast a pleasant experience.
1. Call the hospital ahead of time and tell them about your fears.
This will alert the health team at the hospital to prepare the right equipment or medication to ease your child’s anxiety.
2. Listen to the doctors
Just like you did before your orthopaedic cast was put, listen to the doctors’ instructions about cast removal. These instructions are in place to give you the best experience.
3. Carry noise-cancellation earphones, headphones, or earmuffs.
Most times the noise from the saw is even more nerve-wracking than having the cast removed especially for children.
Come for the appointment with something to counteract the noise.
You can also inquire at the orthopedic clinic you are attending as most of them carry these.
Equipment used for cast removal
- Cast saw;
This is a special saw made for cutting cast but not your skin. You may feel it vibrate as it cuts but it won’t cut your skin. Also, it is a noisy machine.
2. Plastic skin protector.
This will sometimes be slipped under your cast to offer more protection to your skin while a cast saw is being used.
3. Cast spreaders
After the cast is cut, the spreaders are placed in the space between the split cast to spread that space apart and ease access to the cast padding.
4. Scissors
Scissors cut away the cotton padding after the cast has been cut.
What to expect on the day of cast removal
1. You will have an x-ray done
Typically, prior to any cast removal, you will need an x-ray. Unless otherwise, before any cast is removed or just after cast removal, an x-ray is required to confirm if the bone is healed and assess the alignment of the bone.
2. Expect your hand or leg to feel different after cast removal.
Because it has been out of sight for all that time, the arm or leg might;
- Feel sensitive
- It may look smaller; the muscles atrophy while they are in the cast due to disuse so the casted part comes out smaller.
- It May have too much dark hair
- May feel stiff; this is from lack of movement of a joint while in the cast.
- It will be smelly. This is because of the build-up of all the dead skin and from not washing it.
All this is expected but will return back to normal over time.
Sometimes, because the bone still requires protection, your doctor may apply a new cast or give you a removable splint.
In conclusion, knowing what to expect before cast removal can make the experience bearable. You can do this by calling the hospital ahead of time and making them aware of your fears, listening to your doctor’s instructions, and also knowing that your arm or leg may feel different.
