Advice sheet for Patients fitted with a Polypropylene Cast

Please note, this page is printable by selecting the normal print options on your computer.

You have been fitted with a synthetic cast. It is made of a material which is lighter, stronger and more water resistant than traditional plaster.

The cast is at full strength within half an hour of being applied.

You should not:
• Cut or interfere with the cast.
• Do not use anything to scratch under the cast. The slightest scratch could develop into an infection.

You should:
Contact the Plaster Room or the Accident and Emergency Department if you have any problems with your cast, especially if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms:
• Limb pain unrelieved by medication or elevation.
• You experience coldness or notice a whitish or bluish discolouration of the affected limb.
• Numbness or pins and needles in the fingers or toes.
• Painful rubbing or if pressure develops beneath the cast.
• Cast feels too loose or too tight.
• Cast becomes broken or cracked.

You should not get your cast wet
The synthetic material will not be affected by water, but the padding materials underneath will absorb water. In order to avoid skin complications, it is recommended that great care is taken not to let water near the cast.

If the cast is submerged or gets very wet
1. Remove excess water by wrapping the cast in a towel.
2. Rest it on a pad of towels.

A damp cast can cause skin irritation, so please make sure that it is completely dry. If the plaster gets very wet please contact the plaster room or Accident and Emergency Department.

You can contact the Plaster Room on 01908 997510 between 08:30 -15:00 Monday to Thursday. Fridays 08.30 – 13.00. If there is no reply from the Plaster Room/Fracture Clinic, or outside these hours, please contact A&E on 01908 660033.