Total Contact Cast
Also written as: TCC — Total Contact Cast
A close-fitting, non-removable cast applied to the lower limb that distributes plantar pressure across the entire plantar surface, primarily used in diabetic foot ulcer management.
Full Definition
A total contact cast (TCC) is a specialized casting technique in which a fibreglass or plaster cast is applied in intimate contact with the entire plantar surface of the foot and lower leg, thereby spreading load distribution and minimising peak pressure at ulcer sites. It is considered the gold-standard offloading device for non-infected plantar diabetic neuropathic ulcers. The term should always be hyphenated when used as a compound modifier ('total-contact cast') and abbreviated to TCC after first use. Editors must not confuse TCC with a standard below-knee plaster cast, which does not achieve the same contact distribution.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate as 'total-contact cast' when used attributively. TCC is acceptable after first use. Do not use 'plaster cast' as a synonym; a TCC may be made from fibreglass.
In Context
- "Application of a total contact cast (TCC) resulted in complete ulcer closure within eight weeks." — Diabetic foot clinic case report
- "The abbreviation TCC may be used after first full mention of 'total contact cast'." — Journal style guide