Upper Extremity Position and Intraocular Pressure During Spinal Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Overview

This prospective randomized controlled trial evaluated the effect of two upper extremity positions on intraocular pressure (IOP) in adult patients undergoing surgery under spinal anesthesia. Participants were randomly assigned to either an arms-at-sides position or a hands-on-chest position. IOP was measured in the right eye using an Icare ic200 rebound tonometer at predefined perioperative time points. Hemodynamic parameters, including mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation, were also recorded. The primary outcome was the change in IOP from baseline to 30 minutes between the two upper extremity position groups.

Intraocular pressure (IOP) may be influenced by systemic hemodynamics, venous return, episcleral venous pressure, and patient positioning. Although the effects of head and body position on IOP have been investigated, the impact of upper extremity positioning during spinal anesthesia has not been clearly established. This prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at Elazig Fethi Sekin City Hospital. Adult patients scheduled for elective surgery under spinal anesthesia were enrolled. After written informed consent, participants were randomly assigned to one of two upper extremity positions: arms positioned alongside the body or hands positioned on the chest. IOP was measured in the right eye using an Icare ic200 rebound tonometer. Measurements were obtained at baseline, 15 minutes, and 30 minutes after spinal anesthesia and positioning. Head and neck position was maintained neutral throughout the measurement period. Hemodynamic parameters, including mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and peripheral oxygen saturation, were recorded simultaneously. The primary outcome was the change in IOP from baseline to 30 minutes between the two study groups. Secondary outcomes included IOP change at 15 minutes and perioperative hemodynamic changes.