[Effect of surgical positioning and spinal anesthesia on lung function]

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pulmonary Medicine
• Surgical Procedures

Context:

• Surgical positioning and anesthesia can affect respiratory mechanics.
• Perioperative pulmonary risk is a concern, especially for vulnerable patient groups.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the impact of various surgical positions (lithotomy, prone) and spinal anesthesia on pulmonary function.
• To determine if these factors increase perioperative risk in elderly patients and those with ventilatory disorders.

Summary:

• Pulmonary function was assessed in subjects under different surgical positions and with spinal anesthesia.
• The transition from seated to supine position caused the most significant lung function decrease.
• Lithotomy and prone positions, as well as spinal anesthesia, showed only slight impairments in respiratory function.

Impact:

• Surgical positions like lithotomy and prone, and spinal anesthesia, are not identified as additional risk factors for pulmonary function.
• Findings suggest these interventions may be safely employed without significantly increasing perioperative pulmonary risk.