Modified Lateral Position for Achilles Tendon Surgeries: A Technical Tip.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Surgical Techniques
• Musculoskeletal System

Background:

• Achilles tendon surgery is commonly performed with patients in the prone position.
• Alternative supine positioning can compromise surgical access to the Achilles tendon.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an innovative lateral patient positioning technique for Achilles tendon surgery.
• To provide surgeons with optimal access to the Achilles tendon, similar to the prone position.

Main Methods:

• A novel surgical positioning technique is described.
• Patients are positioned laterally during Achilles tendon surgery.
• Surgeon access to the operative field is evaluated.

Main Results:

• The lateral positioning technique provides full surgical access to the Achilles tendon.
• Access is comparable to that achieved with the prone position.
• The technique is designed for ease of reproduction.

Conclusions:

• The described lateral positioning technique offers a viable alternative for Achilles tendon surgery.
• This method ensures excellent surgical exposure.
• The technique's simplicity suggests potential for widespread clinical adoption.