Chapter 2 Part II: Advantages of the

The beach chair and lateral decubitus positions are both reliable methods to accomplish effective arthroscopic shoulder procedures. Each has its own merits and drawbacks for specific cases involving the shoulder joint. Almost every type of shoulder arthroscopy case can be performed in either the beach chair or lateral decubitus position; however, surgeon training, joint positioning, and orientation may favor one position over the other. The beach chair position remains a versatile and well-accepted manner in which to accomplish both open and arthroscopic procedures involving all aspects of the shoulder joint. Not only are open shoulder cases easier in the beach chair position, but also the anatomy and ease of set-up make this a very attractive option for all aspects of shoulder surgery. This also includes cases in which an arthroscopic procedure is converted to an open case. Regardless, with either shoulder position, it is absolutely paramount that the patient is positioned carefu lly with proper padding, properly balanced suspension forces, and proper head set-up in order to minimize the chances of well-described and potentially devastating position-ing complications