Effects of head-down position on blood flow in legs during surgery

The Effects of Prolonged Head-Down Tilt Lithotomy Position on Lower Limb Haemodynamics in Adults Undergoing Minimally Invasive Abdominopelvic Surgery: an Intraoperative Observational Study

Observational University of Portsmouth · NCT06036641

This study is trying to see how lying in a head-down position during colorectal surgery affects blood flow to the legs and whether it can lead to complications for patients.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment25 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Portsmouth Academic / other
Locations1 site (Portsmouth, West Sussex)
Trial IDNCT06036641 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the impact of prolonged head-down tilt lithotomy position on lower limb blood flow during colorectal surgeries. It aims to understand the development of well-leg compartment syndrome (WLCS), a serious complication that can arise from reduced blood flow to the legs while patients are under anesthesia. The study will utilize near-infrared spectroscopy and laser Doppler flowmetry to monitor blood flow and assess inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers. By gathering data on these physiological changes, the research seeks to improve understanding and potentially mitigate the risks associated with this surgical positioning.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults scheduled for colorectal surgery who will be placed in the head-down tilt position.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of recent myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular events, or severe obesity may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better monitoring and prevention strategies for well-leg compartment syndrome, improving patient outcomes after colorectal surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited literature on this specific complication, similar studies on ischemia-reperfusion injury have shown promising results in understanding and addressing related issues.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults scheduled to undergo colorectal surgery in the HDTL position

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of myocardial infarction or cerebro-vascular events in the last 12 months
* Previous revascularisation procedure in their lower limbs
* BMI \> 40 kg/m2
* Inability to give informed consent
* Other serious medical conditions, which in the opinion of study investigators, would interfere with safety or data interpretation

Where this trial is running

Portsmouth, West Sussex

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Compartment Syndrome Nontraumatic Lower ExtremityHead Down Tilt LithotomyMinimally Invasive SurgeryIschaemia Reperfusion SyndromePathophysiologyNear Infrared Spectroscopy, NIRSRobotic Assisted Laparoscopic SurgeryWell leg Compartment Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.