plaster cast

plaster cast

n.

See cast.

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plaster cast

Etymology: Gk, emplastron, plaster; ONorse, kasta

a traditional cast used to encase and immobilize a part of the body, made from a gauze roll impregnated with plaster of paris. The gauze is dipped in warm water and wrapped around the body part. Modern casts are often made of materials such as fiberglass or plastic instead of plaster of paris.

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plaster

1. a mixture of materials that hardens; used for immobilizing or making impressions of body parts.

2. an adhesive substance spread on fabric or other suitable backing material, for application to the skin, often containing some medication, such as an anodyne or rubefacient.

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plaster cast

see cast (5).

plaster of Paris

calcium sulfate dihydrate, reduced to a fine powder; the addition of water produces a porous mass used in making casts and bandages to support or immobilize body parts.

plaster rolls

the dry material for constructing plaster casts is packaged as rolls of impregnated gauze which is thoroughly soaked in water before being applied by unrolling around the site of the fracture.

plaster shears

special shears to cut plaster of Paris casts. Designed to cut upwards away from the tissues to avoid injury. Called also plaster scissors, Esmarch plaster shears.

plaster spreader

a reverse pincer device with flat blades that are fitted down into a cut made in a plaster cast that is to be removed. Opening the handles forces the plaster apart.