[Comparison of intra-abdominal pressure, during spine surgeries, among two prone positional apparatuses in the same...

Spinal surgeries often require prone positioning of the patient. This is associated with increased intra-abdominal pressure, which may increase the risk of intra- and postoperative complications. The described case enables the comparison of two prone positional apparatuses and their influence on changes in intra-abdominal pressure during spine surgeries.

A 74-year-old female patient underwent two spine surgeries due to a fracture of the Th12 vertebra and traumatic kyphosis. Both were performed in the prone position. During the first procedure, stabilization of the fracture, positioning was performed by placing the patient on the Allen table, whereas during the second procedure, laminectomy, by placing the patient on gel pads. During both surgeries the patient's intra-abdominal pressure was measured. The values measured while lying on the Allen table were found to be lower (mean 13.8 mmHg ± 0.66 mmHg) than the results obtained during the procedure utilizing gel pads (mean 24 mmHg ± 1.22 mmHg). Both surgeries were completed without complications. In both cases, creatinine, urea, and potassium concentrations as well as daily diuresis were measured to assess postoperative renal function. The results of these analyses did not indicate renal damage.

The way the patient is positioned on the abdomen has a significant impact on intra-abdominal pressure. Compared to gel pads, the Allen table allows for a reduction in abdominal pressure, which corresponds with lower values of intra-abdominal pressure. This may help reduce the risk of complications during surgeries performed in the prone position.