Complications prevention of shoulder balance support device for lateral decubitus position: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES: The authors invented the shoulder balance support device aiming to prevent skin complications and neck pain in surgical patients operated in lateral decubitus position. This study aimed to compare skin complications and neck pain between patients with shoulder balance support device and traditional positioning instruments and to assess surgeons’ and anesthesiologists’ satisfaction in using the device. METHODS: A randomized controlled trial, which followed Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials(CONSORT) statement, was conducted in patients who underwent laparoscopic upper urinary tract surgery in the lateral decubitus position from June 2019 to March 2021. The shoulder balance support device was used in 22 patients and 22 other patients were in the control group. The area of skin erythema, bruising, or abrasion resulting from the pressure effect of the lateral decubitus position was measured and the pain score for the neck and shoulder area after the operation was assessed. Furthermore, the satisfaction of the medical personnel taking care of the patients and using the shoulder balance support device was investigated. RESULTS: A total of 44 patients were included. No patient in the intervention group reported neck pain. Skin erythema was found in six patients in each group and the median area of skin erythema was significantly smaller in the intervention group. Most of the medical personnel reported satisfaction with use of the device. CONCLUSION: This device is an innovative tool with the aim of ultimate care for surgical patients. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Thai Clinical trials registry ID TCTR 20190606002