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Prone positioning improves surgical access to the thoracolumbar junction - An MRI pilot study
Mohammed Hasanain1, Colya N Englisch2, Thomas Tschernig2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
Summary
Prone positioning offers superior surgical access to the thoracolumbar junction compared to the standard lateral decubitus position. This is due to increased distance between abdominal organs and the spine, enhancing safety and exposure.
Area of Science:
- Spinal Surgery
- Anatomy
- Radiology
Background:
- The lateral decubitus position is standard for thoracolumbar junction surgery.
- Prone positioning may offer better exposure by increasing abdominal organ distance from the spine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare distances between the thoracolumbar spine and abdominal structures in lateral decubitus versus prone positions.
Main Methods:
- Six healthy volunteers underwent MRI in both lateral decubitus and prone positions.
- Measurements of abdominal structure distances from the spine (Th10-S1) were recorded.
Main Results:
- Lateral decubitus position caused variable shifts of abdominal structures.
- Prone position demonstrated the greatest distance of abdominal structures from the spine, especially on the right side.
Conclusions:
- Prone positioning enhances surgical access to the thoracolumbar junction.
- Improved access is noted from both right and left sides compared to lateral decubitus position.
Keywords:
Lateral approachLateral decubitus positionMagnetic resonance imagingProne positionSurgical exposureThoracolumbar junction
