Improved patient positioning for percutaneous nephroscopic procedures using a surgical saddle

Purpose: We describe modified patient positioning on the Cloward* surgical saddle for use during percutaneous nephroscopic procedures. Materials and Methods: The Cloward surgical saddle, which was designed for prone patient positioning, has been used primarily for lumbar surgery. We e valuated the use of the surgical saddle for ease of patient positioning dur ing percutaneous nephroscopic procedures. Results: We have used the surgical saddle in 10 patients to date, including 1 who was 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm.) tall and who weighed 370 pounds (168 k g.). In all cases pulmonary airway pressure was maintained at less than 30 cm. water. We have observed no incidence of pressure injury or other compli cations associated with position. Conclusions: Patient positioning during percutaneous nephroscopic surgery i s important for preventing pressure injury and allowing adequate pulmonary ventilation. The surgical saddle is an excellent aid for secure patient pos itioning during percutaneous nephroscopic procedures that helps to minimize the risk of pressure injury and pulmonary compromise.