Facial pressure induced tissue necrosis

Abstract

The prone position is associated with uncommon but well recognised complications which can lead to significant morbidity. Facial pressure ulcers are one of these rare complications, causing understandable distress due to the conspicuous nature of the injury. Risk factors include the duration of the procedure, age, obesity, and the use of steroids [1]. The type of face-cushion [2] and alternatives to a face-cushion [3] have also been shown to affect the incidence of facial pressure sores.We present a case of a 79-year-old gentleman with no significant previous medical history who developed facial pressure sores following an uncomplicated 4 hour procedure in the prone position, using an "Absolute Face Support Cushion" supplied by Medical Devices Ltd [Portland Street, Southport, Merseyside]. More than 200,000 procedures have been performed with this face-cushion, including a number of cases lasting 10-17 hours, with no similar complication reported.