How to Take Off a Fiberglass Cast

There are special tools to remove casts.

Fiberglass has largely replaced plaster for many casting purposes in the medical field. It is very rigid when applied correctly and performs its functions well. It is not as heavy or bulky as plaster and is easier on the skin. Another bonus is that fiberglass casts are simple to remove. This is usually done in a medical environment by trained personnel using specific tools and procedures that are easy to learn.

Things You'll Need

• Cast saw
• Cast spreader
• Safety scissors

Instructions

1. Make sure there are orders to remove the cast. (Or orders to split the cast partway to alleviate pain caused by the cast being set too tight.) After confirming that there are orders to split or remove the cast, put the patient in a comfortable position that allows you easy access to the casted part.

2. Explain the procedure to the patient. Some cast saws make a high-pitched noise that may scare the patient. Tell her this type of saw does not cut, per se; it instead vibrates at high intensity through the cast. Point out that the circular blade has very small, fine teeth and the risk of being cut with it is extremely minimal.

3. Determine if there are any surgical incisions or medical hardware under the cast that you may need to avoid, and plan your cut accordingly. Generally the cast is cut by bivalving it into two parts with two cuts down the long axis of the cast. For example, on an ankle cast you start the cut at the top lateral, or outer, part of the cast and move down toward the toes, stopping at the ankle joint. At this point, you begin to cut from the lateral toe end until you meet up with your first cut. The cast is now half opened.

4. Now make the same type of cuts on the medial, or inner, part of the cast. Sometimes the saw does not cut all the way through, particularly if there is a thicker section of the cast. A cast spreader is sometimes needed to widen the cast or even split it if it does not open easily. Underneath the cast there is usually a layer of cotton or a casting stocking or both. Carefully cut these off with the safety scissors.

5. Stop briefly at short intervals to let the saw blade cool off. Make sure the saw blade does not touch any skin, because even though the blade does not cut, it gets very hot during the procedure and could cause pain or burns.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the doctor's orders carefully. Watch for surgical incisions, sutures, staples or hardware.

References

• Dr. Lee Robertson M.D., NEMHS, Poplar, Montana
• Ted Chase P.A., Trinity Hospital, Wolf Point, Montana
• Chips Grainger emergency room technician, Poplar Hospital, Poplar, Montana