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Abstract

Inadvertent cast-saw burns are attributable to inadequately padded casts, improper technique, or uncooperative patients. Cast-saw blade temperatures recorded while splitting plaster and fiberglass casts are elevated to a degree that would increase the risk of a second- or third-degree burn. Using standardized plaster and fiberglass cast models, this study attempted to determine whether the elevated temperature was a product of the saw, blade design, blade material, technique of cast removal, or casting materials. The results demonstrated that cast-saw blades manufactured with stainless steel are poorly suited for a device that uses friction to separate a cast. Modifications to the technique and varying the cast-saw models did not reduce the blade temperature consistently to <120-130 degrees F during normal operations.

Casting: Pearls and pitfalls learned while caring for children’s fractures

“…Killian et al[ 3 ] provided another study that evaluated multiple factors that contribute to thermal injuries from cast saw use. In this study they compared thickness of casts, dullness of blades, and experience of cast saw users.…”

“…Several articles on cast saw complications have emphasized the importance of the user’s experience[ 2 , 3 , 7 , 32 ]. Just like any new procedure, it has been studied that an inexperienced user can cause significant harm to the child if not done correctly.…”

Low-Cost Earmuff Shown to Significantly Reduce Cast-Saw Noise

“…Modern cast saws utilize an oscillating blade, which cuts through the hard outer surface of the cast while preventing injury to the soft tissue underneath (Halanski, 2016). These saws are attached to a vacuum to help reduce the temperature of the blade and capture debris (Killian et al, 1999;Puddy et al, 2014). Although complications with cast-saw removal are rare, burns and cuts do occur (Puddy et al, 2014).…”