Shoulder Spica Cast

Other Names

Illustration of the shoulder spica cast

Final product of the shoulder spica cast

• Shoulder Spica Cast
• Shoulder Spica

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Background

• This page refers to the shoulder spica cast
  • This cast immobilizes the shoulder and elbow and anchors them to the trunk

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Indications

• Shoulder Dislocation
  • Unclear on which patients benefit from this versus Shoulder Immobilizer
• s/p certain shoulder surgeries

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Contraindications

• Most acute fractures
• Open fractures
• Injuries with neurovascular compromise
• Fractures with active swelling

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Procedure

Equipment

• See: Casting materials

Technique

• NEEDS TO BE UPDATED

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Aftercare

• Typically non-weight bearing until re-evaluated
• Advise patient to keep cast or splint clean and dry
• Do not insert objects into splint/ cast
• Monitor for complications (worsening pain, paresthesia/ numbness, color changes)
• Seek further care if unable to control pain at home

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Complications

• Acute Compartment syndrome
  • The ability to passively/actively extend fingers without discomfort indicates absence of muscle compartment compression
• Plaster burn/ thermal injury
• Pressure sores
• Nerve palsy
• Vascular compromise
• Splint dermatitis
• Permanent joint stiffness
• Skin infection
  • Cellulitis from underlying wound, pressure ulcers

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See Also

• Casting Main
• Procedures Main

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