Transient lower extremity neurapraxia associated with radical perineal prostatectomy: A complication of the exaggerated lithotomy position

Purpose: We assess the incidence and risk factors associated with lower extremity neurapraxia following radical perineal prostatectomy. Materials and Methods: The medical records of 111 consecutive patients undergoing radical perineal prostatectomy at Duke University Medical Center between June 1994 and June 1995 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were interviewed by telephone to ascertain whether symptoms had resolved. Results: Neurapraxia developed in 23 patients (21%). Symptomatology was variable, including sensory and motor deficits of the lower leg and foot. Although lower extremity neurapraxia occurred in a significant number of patients undergoing radical perineal prostatectomy, it appeared to resolve in most. Conclusions: Careful attention to detail when positioning the patient and limiting the time in the exaggerated lithotomy position appear to be the most critical aspects to prevent neurapraxia.