HDD - Spica cast - any tips?

[powderedwig]

My brother's dd has HDD (congenital hip development problem) that requires an operation to reposition the hip joint and then hold it in place using a plaster cast over the lower half of her body - for six months! She is 11 months old. Has anyone any experience of these casts or practical tips on how to care for a child who is wearing one?

[zippimistletoes]

yes, they are a nuisance with nappies but not impossible.

also difficult to fit in normal pushchair, I had to use an old fashioned pram, also can't fit a normal car seat

stretchy track suit or pyjame bottoms should fit over it it may reach up her chest to the armpit
once she gets used to it she will be quite mobile dd1 was able to climb the stairs for example

she will probably be quite miserable initially but again surprisingly they do get used to it

..how long do they anticipate she will be in hospital?

she will be on antibiotics to prevent infection after the op

[zippimistletoes]

oops ignore the operation bit, that's only if the cast does not do the job on it's own

[chatee]

my dd had this done too....
smock dresses alao fit providing there is plenty of smocking material(iykwim)
where is she being put in cast??

can email you some photos of my dd if that would help?

some prams are ok with a cushion foam insert moulded for the baby....

my dd just fitted in the car seat without additional straps from britax(if you put these on your car seat the warranty/guarantee becomes invalid as you have messed with their appliance-mad isn't it!!)
contact me if you want any more info or hints.....got to dash to school now...

[powderedwig]

Thanks very much - didn't realise she might be able to move.

She is having an op, the surgeon at Alder Hey (Liverpool) - they were referred there from Manchester - is of view that the cast alone wouldn't do it.

Tomorrow's the day! They have sorted out the Britax straps and buggy - the worry now is keeping her happy while she is in the cast and keeping it/her clean from poo...guess the antibiotics won't help with that!

[powderedwig]

Sorry zippimistletoes they think she'll be in hosp for 5 days

[zippimistletoes]

suggest bil make her a trolley to scoot on (sort of skateboard affair)

[BluStocking]

Powederedwig - they need this website and charity - go into chat and then personal experiences and forums. Lots of parents with spica experience, and they can be put in touch with local people going through the same thing, too.

DS was in a thigh length plaster for 3 months when he was 11 months, and I was amazed at how he simply accepted it as another curious development of life. They will get to grips with all the stuff like washing his hair - jusat tell them to keep clothes on that cover the top of the cast - toast posted down is the biggest probelm we faced! Oh, and stupid comments from strangers.

I do wish them the very best of luck.

[snowfalls]

My dt1 was born with a dislocated hip, and was in a spica for 3 months, when she was 6 months old.

here is a pic of her

I have changed my name since then, in case you get confused[smile

[BluStocking]

I hope all went well today, Powderedwig. Let us know how they are.

[zippimistletoes]

oh yes I hope the op went ok

[powderedwig]

Thanks everyone - the op went fine, the parents are now feeling much better and, yes, the baby has adjusted without any problem! Thanks for your support

[zippimistletoes]

Good news thank you for letting us know