Cast and padding indices used for clinical decision making in forearm fractures in children

Figures & data

Figure 1. Cast index (a/b) at fracture site. Internal cast width on lateral radiograph (a) and internal cast width on AP radiograph (b).

Figure 2. Padding index (x/y). Padding thickness in the plane of deformity correction on lateral radiograph (x) and maximum interosseous space on AP radiograph (y).

Figure 3. A. Fractures with 100% displacement. B. After reduction, with cast index a/b = 0.69, padding index (x/y) = 0.14, and Canterbury index = 0.69 + 0.14 = 0.83. C. After 3 weeks, showing no re-displacement.

Figure 4. A. Fractures with 50% displacement. B. After reduction, with cast index (a/b) = 0.97, padding index (x/y) = 0.40, and Canterbury index = 0.97 + 0.40 = 1.37. C. After 1 week, showing re-displacement.

Table

Status	Increase in the no. of correct assessments			Total
	1	2	3
Consultants	5	11	4	20
Registrars	0	7	13	20
Total	5	18	17	40