Use of the spider limb positioner in oncologic lower extremity surgery

Orthopedic extremity surgery presents a unique set of restraints and difficulties relative to other surgical specialties. Among these is the positioning of heavy limbs in sometimes awkward positions for long periods of time. Ideal positioning of an extremity allows accurate and precise surgery to occur at otherwise difficult to access joints and proximal bones and soft tissues. Numerous solutions to this problem have been proposed, one such solution is the Smith and Nephew Spider Limb Positioning System. The table-mounted pneumatic arm features three fully articulating joints and a simple repositioning mechanism. Classic uses of the Spider Limb Positioner System include shoulder and elbow surgery, total knee replacement and ankle procedures. In our institution, the Spider Limb Positioner is used primarily for shoulder arthroscopy and total shoulder arthroplasty. In addition, we have had success using the system for orthopedic oncology cases. This manuscript addresses the conventional as well as unconventi...