Klinische Monatsblätter für Augenheilkunde
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Klin Monbl Augenheilkd · Sep 2012
Randomized Controlled Trial[Significant improvement in compliance with the face-down position after vitrectomy and gas tamponade].
The positioning of a patient in a "prone position" ("face down position", fdp) after pars plana vitrectomy with gas tamponade has been discussed controversially since the beginning of macular surgery. The "prone positioning" is almost standard although the duration varies. In most of the study designs for macular surgery "face-down positioning" is advised. However it is not clearly described how the "prone position" was achieved. In most of the studies it is not shown if the patients had suitable aids and how long and how efficiently they used them. Experience while practising this shows that the patient's compliance is a great challenge. Patients are mostly unable to comply, which could result in refusal. ⋯ By placing supports at the disposal of the patients, it is possible to improve significantly the compliance after surgery. To succeed in using the prone position also at home it is necessary to supply the patient with a support which is comfortable, cheap and easy to handle.