CA
A 42-year-old member asked:
I have a fractured hand, and it's very swollen. will i have to wait swelling to subside before i get a cast?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in

Dr. Matthew Ennaanswered
Orthopedic Surgery 22 years experience
No: You can still get a cast, but the cast may have to be split in order to allow for further swelling. Also, once you get the cast and your swelling goes down, you will likely require a cast change to a more snug cast because the cast will get loose as your swelling goes down.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Barry Pressanswered
Plastic Surgery 46 years experience
Splint first: With marked swelling you will probably be given a splint to use until the swelling subsides, at which time you will be changed to a cast--but a lot depend on the location of the fracture and whether you need an operation.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 24, 2015
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