THE EFFECT OF COLD THERAPY APPLIED TO THE SURFACE OF CAST AND BANDAGE

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of cryotherapy in reducing skin temparature under cast and bandage.
Patients and methods: Thirty-two healthy subjects were divided into 4 groups, randomly. The sensor of the digital thermometer was secured to the middle of the leg before placement of bandage or cast. Robert Jones bandage, elastic dressing, a below-knee plaster cast and synthetic below-knee cast were applied in group 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. Two cold packs were placed around the cast or bandage at the level of sensor, and skin temperatures were recorded for the duration of 90 minutes.
Results: The skin temperature of legs decreased significantly with cryotherapy in all groups. The reductions in skin temperature with cryotherapy were more significant in group 3 and 4 than in group 1 and 2.
Discussion: The use of cold therapy following extremity trauma and operative procedures is well recognized adjunctive therapy for decades. A plaster or synthetic cast and Robert Jones bandage or elastic dressing do not prevent significant skin temperature lowering by cold packs.