Hip dysplasia: Caring for your child in a body (spica) cast
What is a spica cast?
A spica cast is a hard covering made of plaster or fiberglass that may be used as part of treatment for children who have hip or leg problems, such as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). In DDH, the top of the thighbone (femur) does not fit securely into the hip socket (acetabulum), letting the thighbone either partially or completely slip out of the socket (dislocate).
See pictures of normal hip anatomy in a child
and a dislocated hip from DDH
After the thighbone is moved into its normal position, the cast is used to keep the joint in place as it grows. Spica casts are usually worn continuously for 2 to 3 months.
The cast:
- Covers the waist, hips, and legs.
- May have a bar between the legs to strengthen the cast. See a picture of a spica cast with a bar
- Has an opening in the genital area that allows normal urine and bowel elimination.
- Dries rapidly, but may feel damp for 24 to 48 hours. Fiberglass casts feel dry in less than 30 minutes.
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| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH | Last Updated: May 15, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas S. Renshaw, MD - Orthopedics | |
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