The lithotomy position can cause increased intracompartmental pressure (ICP) especially in the calf. Patients cannot communicate pain or other symptoms during surgery under general anesthesia. Incorrect positioning is a risk factor for potentially severe long-term complications. Proper patient positioning is mandatory to provide optimal surgical access. Compartment syndrome, Patient positioning, Pit falls, Prone position, Risk factors, Duration, Surgery.With these factors in mind, the prevalence of compartment syndromes due to patient positioning may be reduced. Preparation includes proper positioning and reduction of duration of the procedure. Special care has to be observed during the preparation for surgery. These risk factors include pressure on the elevated leg and venous obstruction in the inguinal region. The lithotomy position carries several risk factors that may provoke a compartment syndrome of the lower extremity. Most Common Position Associated with Compartment Syndrome One of the most important risk factors however is the prolonged duration of the procedure.

Risk factors include prolonged direct pressure of the affected compartment, venous obstruction, insufficient perfusion, inappropriate fluid accumulation, and coagulopathy.

Inadequate positioning can lead to soft tissue damages and to the development of compartment syndrome.Ī compartment syndrome results from decreased perfusion in well-defined physiological space, associated with increased compartment pressure. Patient positioning is a critical step of any surgical procedure.

The development of a compartment syndrome is based on rising pressure in a defined compartment.

Lithotomy position