Proper Patient Positioning and Complication Prevention in Orthopaedic Surgery

Nicolas Bonnaig,Steven Dailey,Michael Archdeacon

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.