Question
After the birth of my daughter in July 2007, I got a rectovaginal fistula and bilateral femoral nerve damage. Although the nerve damage a lot better, I am still not 100%.  I am going to have surgery by a colorectal surgeon to repair the fistula. Should the surgeon be cautious about what position I am placed in during the 3 hour surgery, so the femoral nerve does not have pressure? Thank you!!

Answer
Hi Mary,

The primary goal is to make sure that the doctor knows about the condition and what section of the nerve was damaged if that is known.

As a rule extreme positions (ie external or internal rotation) of the lower extremities for anything over 15 minutes can be a problem.  The surgery is not my field, but the extremes would not seem to be necessary for this procedure.

So talk to the surgeon specifically about your concern.  You and I cannot alter the attitude of the doctor.  Hopefully they will be receptive.

Hope this helps a bit.