title: Proper Patient Positioning and Complication Prevention in Orthopaedic Surgery.
abstract: ➤ The consequences of improper intraoperative positioning can be profound: it not only may cause substantial morbidity but also may be a major area of litigation, particularly when peripheral nerve injury occurs.➤ The ulnar nerve is most likely to be injured secondary to improper positioning. The elbow should be flexed ≤90° and the forearm placed in a neutral or slightly supinated position intraoperatively to minimize pressure in the cubital tunnel.➤ Pressure-related complications, such as pressure ulcers and alopecia, are best avoided by the use of adequate padding. Cushions on the operating-room table and armrest should be emphasized under osseous prominences.➤ Positioning the head in a non-neutral alignment or arm abduction of ≥90° may result in injury to the brachial plexus.➤ The hemilithotomy position increases intracompartmental pressure in the leg on the uninjured side. The risk of well-leg compartment syndrome can be minimized by avoiding this position if possible.
authors.affiliation: 1363 Coppershire Cove South, Apt. 104, Germantown, TN 38138.
authors.forename: Nicolas
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Bonnaig
authors.affiliation: UC Health Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, ML 0212, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0212. E-mail address for S. Dailey: steven.dailey@uc.edu.
authors.forename: Steven
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Dailey
authors.affiliation: UC Health Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, ML 0212, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0212. E-mail address for S. Dailey: steven.dailey@uc.edu.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Archdeacon
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures; D056888:Patient Positioning; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*