Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026

Surgical Approach and Complications of Stand-alone Lateral Trans-Psoas Interbody Fusion
Published on: February 14, 2025
[Postoperative tetraplegia as a result of positioning]
Christina Virkelyst1, Billy B Kristensen
1Hvidovre Hospital, Anaestesiologisk Afdeling. virkelyst@dadlnet.dk
Abstract:
Tetraplegia is a rare complication of positioning. A 36-year-old healthy man with a BMI of 40 underwent a sigmoidostomy reversal under general anaesthesia in the Trendelenburg position. Post-operatively the patient experienced pain with dysaestesia and weakness of both legs and arms. A medullary cervical compression was suspected, and prednisolone medication was initiated. An MRI showed no signs of either cervical discus prolaps or cervical stenosis. Myelography was not performed. The patient recovered well. Perioperative positioning was most likely the explanation of this condition.
Related Concept Videos
Anatomical Positions
The body is upright, facing forward, and standing erect.
The feet are parallel and flat on the floor.
The arms are hanging by the...
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
