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Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Modified Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Patients with Thoracolumbar Kyphotic Deformity
Published on: September 16, 2022
Parachute-like harness to position patients with severe kyphosis during cataract surgery
Arpitha Muthialu1, Matthew Rauen, T Hunter Newsom
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242-1091, USA.
Abstract:
We describe a technique to position patients with severe kyphosis so the head is horizontal. The legs are lifted into the Trendelenburg position, and the patient is supported with straps similar to those of a parachute. Although the patient's legs are high above the head and jugular distension has been observed, we have not noticed posterior pressure in the 2 cases we describe. This technique is similar to that described by others but has the additional security of the parachute-like straps.

