[Positioning trauma in anesthesia and surgical intensive care medicine (2)]

Specific modes of positioning are essential for successful surgery. These are again critically assessed in this final part of our review. Technically correct execution can minimize the risk of damage caused by positioning, although the possibility of damage still exists. First of all, the position on the fracture table is discussed. Great care must be taken concerning the perineal post and leg holder. In the lateral decubitus position, the correct positioning of head and spine as well as that of the lower arm are of great importance. When using the Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg position, the effect on the cardiopulmonary system and the intracranial pressure must to be taken into consideration. Prone position and its modifications (i.e. tuck position) demand diligent care concerning the positioning of the head. There must be absolutely no bulbus compression and the abdominal wall should not be under pressure. While employing the sitting position, the patient should be adequately monitored so that venous air embolism can be recognized and treated as soon as possible. Because of the increased occurrence of grave complications, the sitting position should be used only if this is absolutely necessary.