Compartment syndrome, rhabdomyolysis and risk of acute renal failure as complications of the urological surgery.

Current knowledge related to the risk of CS when operating in these positions (Lloyd Davies and Trendelenburg tilt) is such that it can be deemed negligent to keep patients in this position (with legs higher than the heart) when not absolutely necessary. If it means repositioning and redraping, thus adding a few extra minutes to the episode and costing a small amount in additional drapes, surely this is a small price to pay for excellent perioperative care? If repositioning is impossible to execute, the head-down tilt position should be reversed every two hours, for a short period of time, to allow more natural perfusion of the lower limbs to occur. Raza et al recommend that if the anticipated procedure duration is beyond four hours, the legs should be removed from supports every two hours for a short period to prevent reperfusion injury. The use of Allen stirrups is preferred to calf supports or metal skids. Turnbull and Mills suggest that we should certainly review our use of compression stockings and intermittent compression devices when operating on patients in the Lloyd Davies position. It will be deemed negligent to misdiagnose (ie: mistake for a DVT) or delay treatment (by prolonged re-assessment) of CS postoperatively when patients have been subjected to prolonged surgery in these abnormal positions. Delayed or missed diagnosis may not only be limb-threatening (and cause a very protracted hospital stay)--it can be life-threatening. With today's current knowledge, surgeons undertaking prolonged surgery in abnormal positions must be aware of this, fortunately rare, complication. Practice guidelines within perioperative care should reflect current knowledge and ensure that risk is minimized. Patients who take legal action if they have experienced this condition may be awarded substantial costs against negligence if lack of care can be proven or diagnosis has been delayed.