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Modified prone position to dissect the popliteal fossa
A Boulemden1, T Ritzmann, S Liptrot
1Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK.
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
|March 15, 2013
Summary
A modified prone position (MPP) offers a safe alternative for popliteal fossa dissection, improving airway access for anesthesiologists and avoiding complications associated with the traditional prone position.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Surgical Positioning
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Traditional prone positioning for popliteal fossa dissection poses airway challenges, particularly for obese patients.
- Limited airway access in the prone position can lead to complications.
- Anesthesiologists often find the prone position unfavorable due to these risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel and safe alternative to the traditional prone position for popliteal fossa dissection.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the modified prone position (MPP) in surgical procedures.
- To assess the impact of MPP on airway management and surgical access.
Main Methods:
- The study describes the implementation of a modified prone position (MPP).
- Popliteal fossa dissection was performed on 12 patients using the MPP between October 2007 and May 2010.
- General anesthesia with a laryngeal mask airway was used for most patients; one received epidural anesthesia.
Main Results:
- The modified prone position (MPP) provided satisfactory surgical access to the popliteal fossa.
- No airway or hemodynamic complications were observed in the 12 patients.
- The MPP facilitated better airway access compared to the traditional prone position.
Conclusions:
- The modified prone position (MPP) is a safe and effective alternative for popliteal fossa dissection.
- The MPP was well-tolerated by both surgeons and anesthesiologists.
- The authors have adopted the MPP as their routine position for this surgical procedure.
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