P194 - Perineal Pressure During Hip Arthroscopy Is Reduced by Use of Trendelenburg: A Prospective Study with Randomized Order of Positioning
Abstract
Purpose
To identify the amount of pressure exerted by the perineal post during randomized Trendelenburg positioning in the modified supine position.
Methods and Materials
We prospectively analyzed a consecutive cohort of 50 patients treated with hip arthroscopy by a single, high-volume orthopaedic surgeon. In the operating room, patients were placed in the modified supine position on a traction extension table with a well-padded perineal post. A standard blood pressure cuff was secured to the post in order to measure pressure exerted on the perineum as traction was applied to distract the hip joint. For each patient, pressure against the perineum was measured at four different positions: 0, 5, 10, and 15 degrees of Trendelenburg. These positions were tested in a randomized order. Mean pressure was compared within subjects under the four period crossover design using a repeated measure analysis of variance model.
Results
Perineal pressure was reduced by 45.9% (13.1 mmHg) by adding 15 degrees of Trendelenburg during traction (P < 0.0001). The crossover design was successful, in that the effect of time period (1,2,3,4) overall and the effect of order (time period within each position-degree condition) was not significant (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
Use of the Trendelenburg position during hip arthroscopy allows for significant reduction in pressure exerted on the perineum with or without traction at all positions beyond 0 degrees. The mean decrease in pressure was proportional to the degree of Trendelenburg applied. This technique is intended to harness gravity to exert the majority of counter-traction, while retaining the perineal post as a backup patient stabilizer. Routine introduction of Trendelenburg during hip arthroscopy may therefore decrease complications related to traction and perineal pressure. A subsequent study from our institution will assess the clinical implications of the force changes demonstrated.
