PTB Fracture Casts
- Materials Section
What our casts are made of
Orth2Go casts are made from rigorously tested, medically appropriate materials — chosen for their strength, flexibility, safety, and environmental care.
What our casts are made of
PLA — Polylactic Acid
Our most widely used material. PLA is eco-friendly, biodegradable (lasting 5+ years), and strong enough for the demands of daily wear. It’s the gold standard for 3D-printed fracture casts.
TPU — Thermoplastic Polyurethane
Used when a cast needs to flex with the body. TPU offers excellent durability and comfort for areas that require some degree of movement.
Disclaimer: As with any material worn against skin, 3D-printed materials may still cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Please consult your doctor if you experience any discomfort.
- B3 Product Guide
PATELLAR TENDON BEARING (PTB)
The Patellar Tendon Bearing (PTB) Cast is a specialized below-knee cast designed to transfer body weight through the patellar tendon and proximal tibia — rather than through the injured lower leg, ankle, or foot. This offloading effect allows some patients to bear weight and stay more mobile even while healing.
It’s often used as a transition cast after a long leg cast in the later stages of recovery. Precise fit is critical for this design, making a custom 3D-scanned cast especially important.
Conditions it treats:
- Tibial shaft fractures (subacute or chronic stage, during healing)
- Distal tibia fractures (non-displaced or stable)
- Tibial stress fractures
- Fibular fractures (when occurring with tibial injury or requiring offloading)
- Transitional healing phase after long leg cast use
- Care Tips Section
Daily support and comfort
Understanding weight bearing:
The PTB Cast is designed to allow weight bearing — but only as directed by your doctor. Follow their guidance precisely and progress gradually.
The patellar tendon area:
This cast applies gentle, intentional pressure just below your kneecap. Some pressure here is normal — but if you experience sharp pain or excessive discomfort in this area, contact your doctor.
Footwear:
Your doctor or Orth2Go will advise on appropriate footwear. A proper shoe of similar height on your unaffected foot is also important for balanced, safe walking.
Monitoring your progress:
Keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can track your healing and determine when you’re ready to transition to full weight bearing without a cast.
- Care Guide Section
Caring for your Orth2Go cast
Your cast is built to last — and with a little care, it’ll stay comfortable and effective right through your recovery.
What our casts are made of
Orth2Go casts are made from rigorously tested, medically appropriate materials — chosen for their strength, flexibility, safety, and environmental care.
Keeping it clean
Wipe the outside of your cast with a damp cloth as needed. Avoid submerging it in water for extended periods, even though it is water-resistant. If moisture gets inside, allow it to air dry completely before wearing.
Wearing it properly
Always wear your cast exactly as instructed by your doctor. Do not attempt to adjust, tighten, or loosen the locks yourself — contact your doctor or Orth2Go if the fit feels off at any point.
Skin care
Do not insert objects inside the cast to scratch your skin. If you experience itching, redness, unusual swelling, or any skin irritation, contact your doctor promptly.
Protection
While your cast is durable and shock-resistant, avoid dropping it or exposing it to extreme heat, which may affect the structure of the material.
Follow-up visits
Attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor. They will monitor your healing and let you know when the cast can safely come off.
When to call your doctor immediately:
- Increased pain, swelling, or numbness inside the cast
- Skin sores, blistering, or an unusual odor
- The cast feels cracked, loose, or structurally compromised
- Your fingers or toes become discolored or cold
Not sure which cast is right for you?
Talk to your orthopedic doctor, or reach out to us directly — we’ll help you find the right fit for your recovery.