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Heel and Calf Capillary‐Support Pressure in Lithotomy Positions
Author(s) -
Roeder Rebecca A.,
Geddes Leslie A.,
Corson Neal,
Pell Carrie,
Otlewski Michael,
Kemeny Andre
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
aorn journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.222
H-Index - 43
eISSN - 1878-0369
pISSN - 0001-2092
DOI - 10.1016/s0001-2092(06)60361-x
Subject(s) - lithotomy position , heel , ankle , blood pressure , medicine , capillary action , surgery , materials science , anatomy , composite material , alternative medicine , pathology
• A THREE‐PART ANALYSIS was undertaken to increase understanding of the occurrence of pressure ulcers in lithotomy positions. An innovative measuring device was used to determine capillary pressure. • ANKLE BLOOD PRESSURE was measured compared to ankle height in 11 participants. Ankle systolic and diastolic pressure decreased approximately 20 mmHg per foot of elevation. • CALF AND HEEL CAPILLARY‐SUPPORT pressures were measured in 15 participants in the standard lithotomy position. Capillary‐support pressure for the calf was substantially less than for the heel. • HEEL CAPILLARY‐SUPPORT PRESSURES were measured in 16 participants in the high lithotomy position. As heel height increased, capillary‐support pressure also increased. AORN J 81 (April 2005) 821–830.