Awareness of cast complications among fracture patients in Aseer region, Saudi Arabia

Background: A fracture is a break in the bone that is either partial or entire. The use of a plaster cast to immobilize damaged bones causes a progressive loss of motion range and muscular strength as well as skin and circulation complications. There is much research on prevalence of complications of casts but there has been no study done on awareness or prevalence of cast complications. Objective: The objective was to determine the prevalence of awareness of cast complications among fracture patients. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Aseer region of Saudi Arabia. Sample size of 350 was calculated by self-made questionnaire. Quantitative analysis was done on Social Package of Statistical Sciences. Results: Results showed a lack of awareness of cast complications; only half of the respondents knew that gypsum casts may cause skin ulcers (50.0%) and joint stiffness (48.0%). Most respondents were unaware that a cast may cause skin burns (74.3%) and ischemia (61.7%). Conclusion: It is concluded that most of the participants were not aware of the complication of cast, so it is necessary to provide information of those patients who have fractures and will go for a cast so that we can diagnose complications and treat on time. Key words: fracture patients, cast complications, Saudi Arabia