Effects of Standard and Modified Z-Trendelenburg Positions on Cerebral Oxygenation and Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter (MOD-TREND)

Laparoscopic surgeries frequently require patients to be placed in a steep Trendelenburg position with pneumoperitoneum to provide optimal surgical exposure. However, this combination induces significant physiological alterations, most notably an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP) and a potential compromise in cerebral venous drainage and regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2). Non-invasive monitoring techniques, such as measuring the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) via ultrasonography, provide reliable, real-time estimates of ICP changes. Additionally, Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) allows for the continuous monitoring of cerebral oxygenation.

This prospective clinical study is designed to evaluate and compare the cerebral and hemodynamic impacts of the standard straight Trendelenburg position versus a modified Z-Trendelenburg position. Participants scheduled for elective laparoscopic procedures will be divided into specific positioning groups. Hemodynamic parameters, NIRS values, and ONSD measurements will be recorded at predefined time points throughout the surgery: at baseline, post-induction, after the establishment of pneumoperitoneum and positioning, at specific intervals during the surgery, and post-operatively in the recovery room. The primary hypothesis is that the modified Z-Trendelenburg position will attenuate the rise in ICP (reflected by a smaller increase in ONSD) and provide better cerebral oxygenation stability compared to the traditional standard position.