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BODYCAST - THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CSOT A
prospective randomized double-blinded clinical evaluation comparing
Microban® impregnated cast padding versus conventional synthetic
padding: by D.G.. Maxwell, A.J. Dalton, and C.M. Borkhoff ABSTRACT: Purpose: Immobilization via casting for closed fractures is an accepted and common practice, but it is well accepted that encasing a limb in a rigid dressing for a prolonged period creates a hospitable breeding ground for bacteria and generally results in the skin becoming dry, itchy and odorous. Microban®, an antimicrobial agent that is molecularly bound into the fibres, fabrics and polymers of cast materials, has the potential to diminish these inherent skin conditions associated with wearing a cast. The purpose of this study was to compare the patients' and investigators' assessments of skin conditions due to cast immobilization using Microban® impregnated materials versus conventional cast materials. Methods:
Fifty patients with closed, undisplaced wrist fractures were recruited
and randomized to receive either a cast impregnated with Microban®
undercast materials or a cast with conventional undercast materials.
Patients were blinded to the type of cast received. Patient demographics
were collected on the day of cast application. After cast treatment,
skin conditions were evaluated by the investigators in addition
to eliciting information regarding discomfort, itch, perspiration
and odour from the patients. Quantitative analysis was undertaken
using paired parametric, statistical tests. This abstract is a portion of the article
which appears in the Summer 2002 issue of BodyCast. |
