Prone positioning for spinal surgery in achondroplasia: A case study report

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Prone positioning in surgery poses risks of positioning-related injuries.
• Achondroplasia presents unique anatomical challenges for surgical positioning.
• Specific guidelines for positioning achondroplasia patients are lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the perioperative management of a patient with achondroplasia undergoing spinal surgery.
• To highlight the importance of preoperative planning and intraoperative vigilance.
• To advocate for specific guidelines for positioning individuals with achondroplasia.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 48-year-old woman with achondroplasia undergoing spinal decompression and posterolateral arthrodesis.
• Detailed preoperative assessment including patient participation in testing positions and equipment.
• Continuous intraoperative positioning monitoring.

Main Results:

• Successful perioperative management was achieved.
• No positioning-related injuries were observed postoperatively.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of safe prone positioning in this patient.

Conclusions:

• Preoperative planning and intraoperative vigilance are crucial for preventing complications.
• There is a need for specific guidelines for positioning individuals with achondroplasia during surgery.
• Incorporating these guidelines into international standards is recommended.