title: [Positioning of the patient for surgery].
abstract: The success of an operation does not only depend on a perfect surgical technique, an appropriate anesthesia, convenient surgical instruments and functional technical equipment, but also on a proper operative positioning. Meeting the requirements of the surgeon, the positioning has also to be in accordance with the patient's individual needs. Seemingly trivial in "simple" positions, there must be paid attention to details, as they can have serious harm to the patient if done incorrectly. The surgeon is in charge for the positioning, but the performance is done in a horizontal division of work between surgeon and anesthesiologist. This article describes standard positions, demonstrates their realization and special damages, and points out juristic aspects as well as technical items like operating table and positioning facilities.
authors.affiliation: Klinik für Anästhesiologie und Operative Intensivmedizin, Klinikum Augsburg, Stenglinstrasse 2, 86156 Augsburg, Deutschland. juergen.auerhammer@klinikum-augsburg.de
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Auerhammer
mesh_terms: D000758:Anesthesia; D001917:Brachial Plexus / Q000293:injuries; D004282:Documentation; D005131:Eye Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D016343:Monitoring, Intraoperative; D009873:Operating Rooms; D059348:Peripheral Nerve Injuries; D010820:Physicians; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology*; D020425:Radial Neuropathy / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000379:methods*; D020424:Ulnar Neuropathies / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D000078329:Workforce