Table 1.

Advantages and disadvantages of each common intraoperative patient position

Position	Advantages	Disadvantages
Fracture table, hemilithotomy	No need for assistant to pull traction Efficient if well-versed with table Imaging easy to obtain	Risk of perineal injury, compartment syndrome, or nerve injury Table is expensive Cannot compare leg rotation Unsuitable for obese patients
Fracture table, well leg straight	No need for assistant to pull traction Efficient if well-versed with table Imaging easy to obtain Can compare leg rotation/alignment	Risk of perineal injury Unsuitable for obese patients Table is expensive
Supine on radiolucent table	Table universally available Protect unstable spine, pelvis Address multiple orthopedic injuries Facilitate simultaneous procedures with other surgical services Good for obese patients Allows mobilization of open fractures Can compare leg rotation/alignment	Requires assistant to pull traction
Lateral on radiolucent table	Table universally available Improves exposure for obese patients Allows mobilization of open fractures May result in improved reduction	Imaging more challenging Requires assistant to pull traction Cannot compare leg rotation