Introduction

Patients with obesity and a hip fracture have an increased risk for perioperative complications because of their size and associated medical conditions. This video describes a technique for intraoperative positioning of patients with obesity who sustain a hip fracture.

Materials and Methods

A 62-year-old woman with a history of morbid obesity (body mass index, 48.06 kg/m²), type 2 diabetes mellitus, and hypertension presented with a right Orthopaedic Trauma association/AO foundation type 31A1.2 intertrochanteric fracture. The patient was admitted for surgical fixation on a fracture table.

Results

A standardized approach for systematic patient positioning and pannus taping is described. This approach facilitates surgical repair of the hip fracture with the use of a cephalomedullary nail.

Discussion

This video describes intraoperative positioning of a patient with morbid obesity and an intertrochanteric hip fracture. Specific techniques to manage the physical aspects of obesity are highlighted to improve the surgical efficiency of the procedure.

Conclusion

By positioning patients with obesity in a standardized manner, surgical time and complications decrease, mediating the risks associated with this patient population.