Cast longettes

Cast splints for targeted splinting in cases of partial immobilization

Cast splints are synthetic, prefabricated splint systems that are applied as open, custom-fitted splints instead of a circular bandage. They are used for fresh fractures, soft tissue injuries, or postoperative care when partial immobilization is sufficient or when, due to potential swelling, a fully enclosed fixation is not desired. Within the plaster and cast range, they thus complement the circular cast bandages by offering an open splint option.

Depending on the product, the material, padding, and manufacturing method vary significantly—ranging from pre-cut fiberglass splints to fiberglass-free longettes on a roll.

Features and Benefits of Cast Longettes

The product range extends from high-strength fiberglass splints to fiberglass-free polyester longettes for lighter partial immobilization. The material, padding, and intended area of application vary depending on the product.

Typical characteristics:

• synthetic material made of fiberglass or fiberglass-free polyester, depending on the product
• Several models come pre-padded from the factory, eliminating the need for additional padding
• Available in rolls for custom cutting or as pre-cut splints
• According to product specifications, some are fully load-bearing after a short curing time
• Radiolucent version available for the glass-fiber-free variants
• Not manufactured with natural rubber latex

Which of these properties apply in each specific case depends on the product in question. A pre-cut fiberglass splint is usually suitable for treating fresh fractures of the arm or hand, while roll stock offers greater flexibility for custom sizes or other body regions.

Which cast splints are suitable for which applications?

The Dynacast Prelude, a synthetic fiberglass splint system, is suitable for rapid initial treatment of fresh fractures of the upper extremities. According to the product specifications, it is padded on both sides and can bear full weight after 20 minutes.

For splints that need to be custom-cut to various lengths, the Delta-Splint, a synthetic fiberglass splint system, is suitable. According to the product specifications, it is available in roll form and is cut to the required length directly on-site.

For splints on the heel or elbow, the Delta-Cast Elite, long splints, white, is suitable. According to the product specifications, it is fiberglass-free, lightweight, and radiolucent.

What should you look for when purchasing cast splints?

The key factors are the affected body region and the desired form of application: Pre-cut splints save time for standardized sizes, while roll stock can be cut to the required length individually.

The material also plays a role: Fiberglass splints offer high strength for stable immobilization, while fiberglass-free polyester splints are lighter and radiolucent.

If you’re looking for a splint without additional padding, you should specifically look for models that come factory-padded. For other models in the Gips und Cast range, it’s also worth checking for compatible padding material.

Fiberglass or fiberglass-free polyester—which splint material is right for you?

Fiberglass splints such as Dynacast Prelude and Delta-Splint are characterized by high strength and are particularly suitable when stable partial immobilization is the primary goal. According to the product specifications, their core consists of multi-layered or single-layered knitted fiberglass material.

Glass-fiber-free polyester splints, such as Delta-Cast Elite, are lighter and, according to the product specifications, radiolucent, which can facilitate follow-up monitoring via X-ray without having to remove the splint first.

Among the fiberglass variants, Dynacast Prelude and Delta-Splint also differ in their form of manufacture: Dynacast Prelude is padded on both sides and partially pre-cut, whereas Delta-Splint is a roll product padded on one side and intended for individual cutting. The appropriate combination of material and form depends on the injury and the desired method of application—neither variant completely replaces the other.

Application and Notes on Cast Splints

According to the product instructions, cast splints are applied by trained professionals and, depending on the model, are either manufactured with integrated padding or additionally padded to prevent pressure points and skin irritation.

After application, the affected body area should be rested in accordance with the instructions of the treating specialist. According to the product information, the recommended wear time ranges from a few days to several weeks and is determined individually by the specialist.

If you experience pain, numbness, skin discoloration, or other unusual symptoms under the splint, you should contact the treating professional immediately rather than adjusting or removing the splint on your own.

Complementary Products for Cast Splints

• Cast Bandages
• Cast splints
• Padding

Cast bandages offer a circular alternative when full-enclosure immobilization is required instead of an open splint. Cast splints are suitable for particularly rapid initial care with prefabricated, ready-to-use systems that require no cutting. Padding material is additionally required for models without integrated padding to protect the skin and soft tissues from pressure sores. Together with the rest of the plaster and cast product line, this allows you to put together the right treatment for every injury.