Postoperative acute renal failure secondary to rhabdomyolysis from exaggerated lithotomy position

Perioperative renal dysfunction is a common problem following urogenital su rgery. The most common causes of renal failure include ischemic or nephroto xic acute tubular necrosis, renal vascular injury, and urinary tract obstru ction. This case conference describes a patient who developed acute renal f ailure, secondary to rhabdomyolysis after a 7-hour urologic surgical proced ure in an exaggerated lithotomy position. Early diagnosis and aggressive tr eatment are essential to prevent or limit the severity of acute renal failu re. A review of the literature and pathophysiology of acute renal failure s econdary to rhabdomyolysis is included. (C) 1999 by Elsevier Science Inc.