OCC OCC Cast Removal & Bivalving

Question 1

Which instrument is the standard tool for cast removal?

Accepted Answer

Oscillating cast saw

Answer

Bandage scissors

Answer

Plaster knife

Answer

Electric drill

Question 2

How does an oscillating cast saw avoid cutting the patient's skin?

Accepted Answer

It vibrates rapidly but does not rotate, cutting rigid material but bouncing off soft tissue

Answer

Its blade is coated with a protective plastic layer

Answer

The blade automatically stops when it contacts skin

Answer

It uses suction to pull the cast away from the skin

Question 3

When removing a cast, the saw should be moved in which pattern?

Accepted Answer

In and out (plunging motion) along the cast surface, not dragged

Answer

In a continuous drag along the length

Answer

In circular motions around the extremity

Answer

In a single long cut straight down the center

Question 4

What is the purpose of bivalving a cast?

Accepted Answer

To split the cast into two halves to relieve pressure or allow for swelling

Answer

To remove the cast entirely

Answer

To reinforce the cast with additional layers

Answer

To apply a new synthetic cast over the existing one

Question 5

After bivalving, what is the NEXT step to fully relieve circumferential pressure?

Accepted Answer

Cut and spread the underlying cast padding

Answer

Apply an elastic bandage over the bivalved cast

Answer

Remove one shell and discard it

Answer

Soak the cast in warm water

Question 6

Which complication is most directly prevented by prompt bivalving of a tight cast?

Accepted Answer

Acute compartment syndrome

Answer

Wound dehiscence

Answer

Bone non-union

Answer

Skin maceration