Sitting position for pineal surgery: Some anaesthetic considerations.

Introduction: The sitting position for pineal tumour removal remains controversial as regards the number of potential complications despite good surgical conditions.

Method: A systematic review of the literature was conducted in order to record the most frequent complications observed in this position, their incidence and prevention.

Results: Venous air embolism, hypotension, pneumocephalus, macroglossia, quadriplegia and nerve injuries are the most frequent complications observed. Their incidence can be dramatically decreased with an accurate anesthesiological and neurosurgical management.

Conclusion: In training teams, the sitting position remains the gold standard for pineal tumour removal.