The Journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume
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J Bone Joint Surg Am · Oct 2012
Review Historical ArticlePlaster: our orthopaedic heritage: AAOS exhibit selection.
Plaster has been used for centuries as a stiffening agent to treat fractures and other musculoskeletal conditions that require rest, immobilization, or correction of a deformity. Despite modern metallurgy and internal stabilization, plaster casts and splints remain an important means of external stabilization. Casting is a dying art as modern internal and external fixation replace external immobilization. Proper casting technique is paramount. This manuscript outlines the history and chemistry of immobilization materials and techniques as well as the differences among them and the advantages and disadvantages of each. ⋯ Plaster casts and splints remain an important treatment method for acute and chronic orthopaedic conditions.