Medical Casting Tape & Orthopedic Fiberglass Cast Tape

Orthopedic casting tape is a lightweight, high-strength immobilization material used by medical professionals to treat fractures and soft tissue injuries. Unlike traditional plaster, modern cast tape is made from a water-activated fiberglass or polyester fabric coated in a polyurethane resin. This combination creates a durable, water-resistant shell that is significantly lighter and more breathable than plaster of Paris.

Professional-Grade Fiberglass Cast Tape for Clinical Use

At DME-Direct, we carry an extensive selection of synthetic and fiberglass casting tapes from industry-leading manufacturers including Ossur, BSN Medical, and more. Our tapes are designed to provide the handling ease of plaster with the superior structural integrity of synthetic materials. Whether you are managing acute fractures in a clinic or high-volume casting in a hospital, our products ensure a smooth, professional finish every time.

Fast-Setting Technology: Most tapes begin to set within 3-5 minutes and are ready for weight-bearing in approximately 20 minutes.
Radiolucent Properties: The porous weave allows for clear X-ray imaging, enabling doctors to monitor bone healing without removing the cast.
Vibrant Colors & Widths: Available in 2", 3", 4", and 5" widths, ranging from traditional white to vibrant colors and patterns to improve patient compliance.

Ossur Techform Premium Casting Tape

$71.99

Details

Technical Guide to Orthopedic Casting Supplies

Choosing the right casting tape is essential for patient comfort and successful immobilization. Understanding the material science behind fiberglass and synthetic options can help healthcare providers select the best tape for each specific injury.

Fiberglass vs. Polyester Casting Tape

While both materials are water-activated and fast-setting, there are key differences:

Fiberglass Cast Tape: Known for its extreme durability and rigidity. It is the gold standard for long-term immobilization and weight-bearing casts.
Polyester/Synthetic Tape: Offers slightly more conformability during application. It is often preferred for specialized casting techniques where a smoother edge is required to prevent skin irritation.

Key Benefits of Modern Cast Tape

Modern medical casting tape offers several clinical advantages over legacy materials:

Breathability: The porous nature of fiberglass allows air circulation, which helps reduce skin maceration and localized odors under the cast.
Water-Resistance: While the tape itself is waterproof, it is important to note that traditional cotton padding is not. For a fully "swim-safe" cast, this tape must be paired with specialized waterproof cast liners.
Consistent Set Times: Our tapes feature "rub-responsive" resins, allowing clinicians to control the working time based on water temperature and application speed.

How to Care for Your Synthetic Cast

To ensure the integrity of the hard cast tape, patients should keep the exterior clean and avoid inserting objects under the cast. If the cast becomes wet, it should be dried thoroughly using a hair dryer on a cool setting. Any cracks or soft spots in the casting tape should be reported to a medical professional immediately to prevent loss of immobilization.

Disclaimer: Casting tape should only be applied and removed by trained medical professionals. Improper application can lead to serious complications, including circulation issues and pressure sores.