# Plaster Cast Removal

## Overview

This module describes how to remove plaster casts.

## Indications

## Contraindications

## Patient information and consent

### How do I explain this procedure?

“I’m going to use a vibrating saw, cutters, and a cast opener to cut through the cast and then crack it open.”

### What can my patient expect?

“The saw may look scary, but the blade does not rotate, it just vibrates, so it doesn’t cut skin, only cast.”

### What is my patient’s role?

“Let me know if anything feels uncomfortable or painful while I am cutting off the cast.”

## Preparation

### Documentation

### Equipment

## Site & Positioning

Position the patient with the cast in easy reach.

## Procedure

Follow medical asepsis without gloves.

## Troubleshooting

My patient is terrified of the cast saw.

It is helpful to demonstrate its safety, firstly by pressing it against your own palm, then the patient’s palm, to show that it is not spinning but simply oscillating.

I’m struggling to make progress with the saw.

Press the cast saw all the way through the depth/thickness of the cast at one site at a time, don’t push it along.

## Risks

## References