Embracing Re-Form

In early April, my orthopaedic practice, in conjunction with Wellington Ortho & Rehab became the first Canadian centre to offer the innovative DJO-Exos® bracing system as part of their expanding array of fracture management products.

Exos is the only bracing system that offers “a removable, adjustable, reform-able and waterproof solution for the treatment of fractures and other injuries (conditions) requiring stabilization.  I had a chance to get some hands-on time with this system last month and I was very impressed.

Exos is a heat moldable, rigid brace that performs the essential functions of a conventional cast.  Using a simple oven system, the brace can be warmed to the point of being almost rubbery in consistency.  Upon initial application, the brace can be gently molded for a snug, comfortable custom fit.  Now here’s the magic…  over the next few minutes, the brace hardens to a firm, cast-like consistency, fully capable of supporting the injured part.  Using the Boa® dynamic compression closure system, the brace can be tightened or loosened as required, maintaining a secure and comfortable fit.

Exos Short Arm Fracture Brace

How does Exos stack up against conventional casts?

	Plaster/Fiberglass Cast	Exos
Rigid immobilization/protection	Yes	Yes
Light weight	Fiberglass-Yes Plaster-No	Yes
Radiolucent, able to clearly xray through the device without removal	Fiberglass-Yes Plaster-partially	Yes
Water-proof (fully submersible)	Fiberglass-Yes (with specialized, bulky lining) Plaster-No	Yes
Adjustable, accommodates for swelling and/or muscle loss (atrophy)	No	Yes
Easy Removal	No-requires cast saw	Yes-but can be locked if indicated
Re-moldable, re-formable	No-requires removable and re-application	Yes
Allows easy examination/inspection of the fracture/injury site	No	Yes
Skin and/or cast cleaning to control odor	No	Yes
Ability to start rehab therapy earlier in the healing process (if indicated*)	No	Yes
Saw-less Removal	No	Yes

From a medical perspective, this system offers advantages over conventional casting.  From a patient perspective, the advantages are even more pronounced, leading one of my initial patient to ask “why would somebody want a cast when this (Exos) is available?”.

Exos braces can be fit and applied with referral from the physician managing your injury or by direct referral to my orthopaedic practice in Guelph, Ontario.  Call 519-837-2020, click here to book on line, or send us an email at "MyExosBrace@gmail.com" today so we can get you fitted for this remarkable product today!

Some important points to remember:

• Exos® is a medical device and should only be used under the advice of a physician, when treating a medical condition.
• Exos® may NOT be suitable for your specific fracture, ask your doctor.
• Exos® braces require that users follow simple, but specific instructions.  Ask for your instruction sheet at the time of initial application.  If you have questions, ask!
• Skin irritation can develop, particularly if device is over-tightened.  Please follow instructions given at initial application. 
• Consult your physician immediately should a problem develop or should you have concerns.

K McKenzie MD, Orthopaedic Surgeon
519-837-2020