Abstract
BACKGROUND: Unintentional cast saw injuries are attributable to casting material or improper removal technique. Another factor associated with the risk of injury is the "safety distance," the distance between the inner perimeter of the cast and the patient's skin.
METHODS: Nine patients with lower leg casts around the knee/ankle were examined. Safety distance was measured using a standard depth gauge at 6-10 spots along the limb. The safety distance at each spot was measured in both supine and lateral-decubitus positions. Limb position was termed "safe" with the saw coming directly from above; a "dangerous" position was considered when the saw was coming from the side.
RESULTS: The mean safety distance in the "safe position" was 17.02 mm +/- 4.66 mm, compared with 14.34 mm +/- 3.85 mm in the "dangerous position" ([DELTA] = 2.7 mm; p < .0001).
CONCLUSIONS: Proper positioning of a patient during cast-splitting, with the saw in the nondependent, safe aspect of the limb, can significantly increase the safety distance and minimize skin injuries.