Traction table-related complications in orthopaedic surgery.
Traction tables are used in numerous procedures about the hip and femur, including fracture fixation, hip arthroscopy, and less invasive arthroplasty. The use of a traction table is not without risks, however, and significant complications have been described, including injury to the perineal integument and soft tissues, neurologic impairment, and iatrogenic compartment syndrome of the well leg. The orthopaedic surgeon who uses a traction table for the surgical management of femur fracture must be familiar with the associated potential dangers and risks and must develop a plan to avoid traction table-associated complications, such as use of a radiolucent flat-top operating table for obese patients, adequate patient positioning, and the minimum possible surgical time.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Denver Health Medical Center, CO, USA.
Michael A
MA
Flierl
Philip F
PF
Stahel
David J
DJ
Hak
Steven J
SJ
Morgan
Wade R
WR
Smith
D001182:Arthroscopy; D005264:Femoral Fractures / Q000601:surgery; D006621:Hip Joint / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D009437:Neuralgia / Q000209:etiology; D058638:Operating Tables / Q000009:adverse effects*; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects*; D060545:Pudendal Neuralgia; D016683:Supine Position; D014143:Traction