[Complications related to the seated position of the aged patient in neurosurgery]

The advantages of the sitting position for neurosurgery of the posterior fossa are evident and universally admitted. However, respiratory and haemodynamic consequences make this position uncommon and even exceptional for the old patient whose existing physiological cardiovascular and pulmonary disturbances may result in greater risks. In this study, the complications observed during and after surgery in twenty-two patients over 65 years are analysed. These patients underwent functional neurosurgical procedures in sitting position. According to the results, old age does not appear to be an absolute contra-indication of the sitting position for this type of surgery.