A patient lying prone or on stomach is the commonly used position in spinal surgery, neurosurgery, and colorectal operations. Although this position enables improved accessibility to the surgeons, it exerts severe pressures on the front side of the body requiring proper support. There comes the consequence of utilizing prone position gel pads, a prone head rest, and a quality OT table mat, hence safety, stability, and comfort with any procedure done in the prone position.

Understanding the Prone Position and Its Risks

When a patient in the prone position is placed, the chest, belly, the face and limbs are in direct contact with the operating table. In case it is not well padded, this may result in complications including:

• Pressure ulcers

• Nerve compression

• Airway obstruction

• Facial swelling or injury

To minimize such risks, care teams in the surgery departments have access to special support tools that distribute pressure equally and align the body to the correct position.

Prone Position Gel Pads: Full-Body Support

Prone position gel pads are hospital-grade cushions specifically manufactured to support the sensitive parts subjected to pressure during the face-down operations. These gel cushions are used under the chest, pelvis, legs and arms to avoid the accumulation of pressure and the natural alignment of the spinal cord.

These pads are created with soft and flexible gel and their shape adapts to the shape of the body decreasing the risk of skin destruction and nerve damage. Their anti-slip also maintains patients at a stable position on the table.

Prone Head Rest: Essential for Airway and Facial Protection

Prone head rest is a major accessory once putting a patient in the prone position. It supports the forehead and chin of the patient, leaving his nose, eyes and mouth with no pressure. This does not only secure sensitive structures of the face but also avoids blocking the airways to allow adequate ventilation.

Most prone head supports have an opening or a channel to fit intubation tubes, especially in general anesthesia surgeries.

OT Table Mat: Foundation for Effective Positioning

High quality OT table mat forms the bottom layer on the operating table which cushions the body in entirety, and can be used as a complement to other gel positioning materials. It provides constant relief of pressure, assists in limiting the movement of the patients, and boosts the efficiency of prone position supports.

The mats are washable, portable and can adjust to more than one surgery posture, other than just the prone.

Conclusion

The application of the prone position during any surgery requires sophisticated support equipment to prevent the risk of complications. Hospitals can make sure patient safety and surgical efficiency is achievable with prone position gel pads, a prone head rest and a long-lasting OT table mat.