What is casting and splinting?
Casts are a form of external immobilization, custom-made to conform to the injured extremity of your pet. The casts lie in close contact with the skin, made of several layers of padding and plaster. However, other materials may be used to create a cast, including polyurethane-impregnated cotton-polyester, fiberglass, or thermal plastics.
Splints may be metal, plastic, or wood, and may be straight or curved to the shape of the limb. After protecting the surface of the injured area with a dressing and some padding, your veterinarian will securely place the splint over the area to be protected and will apply more layers of bandage material. The thickness of the padding layer, and thus the size of the splint, will depend on the location and type of injury.
Efficacy of Casting and Splinting in Dogs
Surgically treated fractures will heal approximately 97% of the time without complications of serious nature. The rate of healing can be much lower (50% to 95%) using a splint - depending on whether or not your pet is experiencing secondary complications (swelling, infection) and if immobilization is followed during the healing period.
Casting and Splinting Recovery in Dogs
Pain medication is normal for send-home drug therapy after a casting or splinting endeavor. However, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are also prescribed in cases of secondary damage caused by the injury (swelling or infection).
The at-home care provided by the pet owner accounts for approximately 50% of recovery. Limbs that have been casted must be checked twice daily for effective circulation. Cold, swollen, or blue tinged toes (if exposed) indicate a problem and must be addressed immediately. The cast must stay impeccably clean and dry, to prevent infection. Dirty, damp or odorous casts must be changed immediately. Check-ups with the veterinarian and total recovery time lies dependent on the injury type. Several months of recovery time are to be expected.
How often does the bandage or splint need to be changed?
If the wound beneath the bandage is infected, the bandage will need to be changed 1-2 times per day for the first few days, until the infection is under control.
Since the purpose of a splint is to help immobilize an injured body part, it is usually changed less frequently. In puppies that are growing rapidly, the splint may need to be changed weekly to allow it to be adjusted for proper fit. In adult dogs, a splint may be left in place for several weeks if there are no complications. Your veterinarian will tell you how often the bandage or splint on your pet will need to be changed, depending on the specifics of the case.
Do not take the splint or bandage off unless specifically instructed to do so by your veterinarian.
If your dog takes the bandage off on his own, you should contact your veterinary clinic immediately and make arrangements to bring your dog in for a recheck appointment.
If your dog left the bandage alone when it was first applied and then suddenly began to chew at it, it may be an indication that a problem is developing. If this happens, do not delay - contact your veterinarian immediately for further advice.
What else should I do?
Restrict your dog's exercise and do not allow the bandage or splint to get wet. When you take your dog outdoors for bathroom breaks, cover the bandage with a plastic bag or a protective bootie to prevent it from getting wet or soiled. Without exception, your dog must not be allowed to go outside unless leashed, bandage covered and supervised by a responsible adult. It is recommended to confine your dog to a crate or cage to restrict its activity.
When should I take my dog back to the veterinarian?
Your veterinarian will tell you how often to schedule routine bandage or splint changes. You should contact the clinic or bring the dog in for an immediate recheck appointment or bandage change if:
- your dog is chewing on the splint or bandage
- the bandage becomes wet or soiled with dirt or feces
- you notice that the bandage is smelly or becomes soiled with blood or other discharges
- the bandage slips or appears to be too loose or too tight
- you notice swelling above or below the bandage
Cost of Casting and Splinting in Dogs
Casting and splinting can be an expensive, yet highly effective treatment for fracture or breaks. It is often an available 'back up option' when surgery is not affordable or possible for whatever reason. Over time the average cost to cast or splint an extremity can be approximately $500-$2,000. The cost will depend on the type of injury, frequency of bandage changes and temperament of your pet.
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