plaster cast

Applying a plaster cast

A plaster cast is usually applied for the external, mechanical fixation of a broken bone (fracture). This type of fracture treatment is called conservative . It is mainly used for uncomplicated, non-displaced or stable bone fractures after repositioning . The opposite of this is the surgical treatment, in which the individual bone parts are fixed using metal parts (see osteosynthesis ).

Further indications for the application of a plaster cast apply e.g. B. Immobilization and / or pain relief for severe strains and bruises as well as after surgical treatment of torn tendons and ligaments.

Usually plaster casts are applied to the extremities .

history

The plaster cast was invented in 1851 by the Dutch doctor Antonius Mathijsen (1805–1878). He worked as an army doctor. However, since prehistoric times, splints have been used in conjunction with other hardening materials, such as B. clay or clay is used. However, the durability of this left a lot to be desired. In 1834 the Belgian military doctor Louis Seutin had already developed a bandage made of linen bandages, splints and starch (the paste bandage ), but it took two days to dry, which was particularly unsuitable for soldiers during battle. Mathijsen chose cotton and plaster . This combination had many advantages. It was cheap, the bandages were easy to put on and take off, but adhered well to the arm or leg, dried quickly, and were also so stable that the wall thickness and thus the weight could remain relatively low. In 1852 Mathijsen went public with his invention and soon plaster of paris began its triumphal march in civil medicine.

For more than a century, not much has changed in the cast. It was not until the end of the 20th century that the plaster cast faded into the background and is almost only used for short-term fixation. Plastic fibers with synthetic resin are now predominantly used for longer treatments . The advantages are even faster curing, even lower weight and better resistance to moisture. However, the costs are significantly higher and the question of the environmental compatibility (in terms of manufacture and disposal) of the associations is rarely asked. Plastic plasters are often referred to in German-speaking countries with the English term cast .