Three-dimensional analysis of the gap space under forearm casts

• 作者: Wirtz Roman Pianigiani Silvia Innocenti Bernardo Schuind Frédéric
• 来源期刊: 中华创伤杂志英文版
• 关键词: Forearm Wrist casts Radius fractures Conservative treatment Gap space
• 年，卷（期）: 2022,（2）
• 所属期刊栏目: Original Article
• 页码范围: 77-82
• 页数: 6页
• 语种: 中文
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cjtee.2021.05.007

摘要

Purpose::Secondary displacement represents a frequent complication of conservative treatment of fractures, particularly of the distal radius. The gap space between skin and cast may lead to a certain degree movements and this increased mobility might favor redisplacement. The aim of this study was to develop a new 3D method, to measure the gap space in all 3 geometrical planes, and to validate this new technique in a clinical setting of distal radius fractures.Methods::This study applies 3D imaging to measure the space between plaster and skin as a potential factor of secondary displacement and therefore the failure of conservative treatment. We developed and validated a new methodology to analyze and compare different forearm casts made of plaster of Paris and fiberglass. An unpaired t-test was performed to document differences between the investigated parameters between plaster of Paris and fiberglass casts. The significance level was set at p< 0.05. Results::In a series of 15 cases, we found the width of the gap space to average 4 mm, being slightly inferior on the radial side. Comparing the two different casting materials, plaster of Paris and fiberglass, we found a significantly larger variance of space under casts made of the first material ( p=0.39). A roughness analysis showed also a markedly significantly higher irregularity of the undersurface of plaster of Paris as compared with fiberglass. Conclusion::This study allows for a better understanding of the nature of the "gap space" between cast and skin and will contribute to develop and improve new immobilization techniques and materials.