Reusable Fiberglass & Polyester Total Contact Cast System for Plantar Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Efficacy & Cost-Effectiveness
Summary: A retrospective study from Sakarya University in Türkiye evaluated a reusable hybrid total contact cast (TCC) combining fiberglass and polyester for plantar diabetic foot ulcers unresponsive to standard care. Results showed high healing rates, consistent closure times across ulcer sites, and potential cost savings, positioning this system as a practical and sustainable off-loading option. (Frontiers in Endocrinology)
Key Highlights:
- Patient outcomes: Of 70 patients, 75.7% achieved complete wound closure, while 24.3% did not heal, with some requiring amputations.
- Ulcer location: Healing times were similar across forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot ulcers, with no significant differences noted.
- Patient profile: Average patient age was 57 years; most had long-standing diabetes with peripheral neuropathy, and some presented with peripheral arterial disease.
- Cast design: The semi-rigid toe-to-knee cast combined durable fiberglass with softer polyester layers, designed for reusability and strength.
- Healing times: Median closure ranged from ~64.5 days (forefoot) to ~84.5 days (hindfoot), without statistically significant differences.
- Cost considerations: While a formal cost analysis was not included, the reusable design reduces material waste and offers potential economic advantages, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Read the full article in Frontiers in Endocrinology
Keywords:
diabetic foot ulcer,
total contact cast,
offloading,
reusable cast,
cost effectiveness,
wound healing