Evaluation of the external pressure exerted at the calf region using the boot-support-type leg-holder system in the lithotomy position
well leg compartment syndrome ; peak contact pressure ; body size ; leg size ; foot size
Published online: Sep 30 2019
Abstract
Background: Well leg compartment syndrome (WLCS) is a devastating complication related to surgical procedures performed using a leg-holder system in the lithotomy position. We have reported that the external pressure at the calf region using the knee-crutch-type leg- holder system increases in men and is dependent on body size. In the present study, we investigated the relationship between the external pressure at the calf region using the boot-support-type leg-holder (BSLH) system and selected physical characteristics to investigate the risk factors for developing WLCS.
Methods : Thirty-one young, healthy volunteers, 15 men and 16 women, participated. The peak contact pressure (PCP) was measured as representative external pressure at the calf region in contact with the BSLH system using the pressure-distribution measurement system BIG-MAT®.
Results : No sex difference was found in PCPs. Significant positive correlations were not observed between the left PCPs and height, weight, body mass index (BMI), tibial length (TL), bimalleolar breadth (BB), maximum calf girth (MCG), or foot length (FL), and between the right PCPs and height, weight, BMI, BB, MCG, or FL.
Conclusion : The external pressure exerted at the calf region using the BSLH system in the lithotomy position is independent of sex, body, leg, and foot sizes.
