IMPORTANCE OF THE CHOICE OF POSTURE IN BR AIN SURGERY

The posture of the neurosurgical patient depends first on the approach and working position of the surgeon, and the spatial orientation duri ng surgery. Venous outflow is probably the major factor for optimal br ain retraction and for preventing venous haemorrhage. No one of the po stures presently in use is fully free from the risk of air embolism. R espiratory and cardiac diseases are often limiting factors for the cho ice of a posture. Thoracic and abdominal compression must be cautiousl y avoided. (C) 1998 Elsevier, Paris.