The lithotomy position in colon surgery. Postoperative complications

Area of Science:

• Surgical positioning
• Perioperative nursing
• Patient safety

Background:

• The modified lithotomy position is common in general surgery, providing access to the abdomen and perineum.
• This position can lead to complications such as lumbosacral plexus stretch, nerve injuries (sciatic, peroneal), and leg compartment syndrome.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the risks associated with the modified lithotomy position.
• To emphasize the critical role of preoperative nursing assessment in identifying at-risk patients.
• To underscore the perioperative nurse's responsibility in ensuring safe patient positioning and intraoperative care.

Main Methods:

• Review of potential complications associated with the modified lithotomy position.
• Identification of key patient factors for preoperative nursing assessment (age, nutrition, skin, comorbidities, procedure details).
• Emphasis on the perioperative nurse's role in risk identification and mitigation.

Main Results:

• Patient risk factors for complications can be identified through comprehensive preoperative nursing assessment.
• Proactive identification allows for targeted interventions to prevent adverse outcomes.
• Safe patient positioning and optimal intraoperative care are facilitated by this nursing role.

Conclusions:

• Preoperative nursing assessment is essential for mitigating risks of the modified lithotomy position.
• Perioperative nurses play a vital role in patient safety by identifying at-risk individuals.
• Effective collaboration between nurses and the surgical team ensures optimal patient outcomes.