Casting Apparatus and Method for Using the Same

Abstract

A casting or splinting device comprises a plastic casting body formed into various configurations for immobilizing a bone fracture or the like. The casting body is filled with small spherical granules having a smooth and slippery surface. The casting body is sealed and provided with an outlet port for aspirating air from within the casting body. Aspiration of air from the casting body results in a rigid casting or splint.

1 . A reusable casting apparatus, comprising:
 a) a flexible casting body sealed about the perimeter thereof, said casting body defining a substantially narrow cavity;   b) wherein said cavity is substantially filled with granules;   c) wherein said casting body includes a nozzle opening into said cavity; and   d) means for securing said casting body about a body member.   
   
   
       2 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said casting body is fabricated of airtight plastic material. 
   
   
       3 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said granules are spherical plastic granules about 1-2 mm in diameter. 
   
   
       4 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said casting body is adapted for application about a forearm. 
   
   
       5 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said casting body is adapted for application about a lower torso and upper thigh. 
   
   
       6 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said casting body is adapted for application about a lower body extremity. 
   
   
       7 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said casting body is adapted for application about a leg. 
   
   
       8 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said casting body is adapted for application about an upper torso. 
   
   
       9 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said casting body is adapted for application about a patient's shoulder and arm. 
   
   
       10 . A method of immobilizing a body member, comprising the steps of:
 a) wrapping a casting about the body member;   b) moulding said casting to conform to the contour and shape of the body member;   c) aspirating air from said casting through a nozzle opening into said casting until said casting is sufficiently ridge to maintain the body member in an immobilized state; and   d) closing and securing said nozzle upon discontinuing aspiration of air from said casting.   
   
   
       11 . The method of  claim 10  including the step of securing straps about said casting. 
   
   
       12 . The method of  claim 10  including the step of removing said casting by permitting air to enter said casting.