Peer-reviewed article
A straightforward inexpensive method for hip cast immobilization in infants and children.
Kai Chen, Yuxi Su ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This peer-reviewed study compares two methods for immobilizing the hip in children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH): using a bamboo stick versus a specialized hip spica table. The researchers analyzed 216 children treated between 2018 and 2023, finding no significant differences in procedure time, materials used, or complications between the two methods. The bamboo stick method proved to be a portable, safe, and cost-effective alternative to specialized equipment.
Key points
- 216 children with DDH were treated: 101 with bamboo stick method and 115 with specialized hip spica table
- No statistically significant difference in procedure time between the two methods
- Both groups used similar amounts of polymer bandages (7.8 vs 7.9 rolls)
- No significant difference in complications including skin injury, rash, or cast contamination
- Bamboo stick method is portable and cost-effective for resource-limited settings
Limitations
This is a retrospective analysis without randomization, so treatment allocation bias may exist. The study does not report long-term outcomes such as cast efficacy in correcting DDH or functional outcomes after treatment completion.
Abstract
BACKGROUDS: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) represents the most prevalent hip disorder in children. A variety of methods for spica cast immobilization have been described using specialized equipment. This study attempts to explore an effective tool for spica cast immobilization. METHODS: We retrospectively analysed a total of 216 children who were diagnosed with DDH and underwent spica cast immobilization in our hospital from January 2018 to December 2023. They were divided into the group A (use of a bamboo stick) and group B (use of the hip spica table). The statistical analysis was conducted on preoperative data, procedure time, and major complications following spica cast immobilization. RESULTS: A total of 101 children in group A and 115 children in group B underwent spica cast immobilization. There was no statistically significant difference in general preoperative data (gender age, weight, medical history, or affected side) and procedure time. The mean number of polymer bandages consumed in group A was 7.8 ± 0.4 rolls, and 7.9 ± 0.5 rolls in group B. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. There was no statistical difference in complications (including superficial skin injury, extensive rash, and cast contamination). CONCLUSION: The bamboo stick represents a portable, safe, and cost-effective alternative to the hip plaster operating table. This method can be applied in spica cast immobilization in children.