Waterproof Casting Versus Standard Casting for Short Leg Walking Casts: a Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aims to prospectively examine a group of pediatric patients that receive either a waterproof or non-waterproof short leg cast. From this, we will be able to determine if there are any significant differences between the two groups. If waterproof short leg casts do not cause increased skin breakdown or lead to increases in cast complications and unintended clinic visits, then we can more confidently apply them to pediatric patients, particularly in the summer months when children are more likely to swim.

On application of a waterproof, short leg walking cast, a questionnaire will be distributed to the patient/family to track how many times the cast gets wet. During the application of the cast, materials will be tracked for cost analysis. The subject will return between 3 and 7 weeks for cast removal. On cast removal, the following questionnaires will be completed: cast condition, skin condition, overall patient/family satisfaction, and PROMIS Pediatric Lower Extremity Function - Mobility. Questionnaires will take approximately 5 - 10 minutes to complete. The parent survey regarding how many times the cast got wet will be returned (if applicable). Waterproof and non-waterproof groups will be compared in the basis of cast condition, PROMIS lower extremity survey outcomes, skin condition, overall patient/family satisfaction, number of unintended cast changes or return clinic visits, as well as cost difference.

Outside of the randomization itself, all standard of care procedures or normal practice activities will occur. Each participant will undergo cast application as recommended per standard of care. Study participation does not involve more than minimal risk since everything outside of the randomization is standard of care.

Waterproof and non-waterproof groups will be compared in the basis of cast condition, PROMIS lower extremity survey outcomes, skin condition, overall patient/family satisfaction, number of unintended cast changes or return clinic visits, as well as cost difference. A Chi-Square test will be used to analyze the data.