OBJECTIVE: this paper aimed at promoting the use of the inner tube as a systematic device in orthopedic surgery, such as body holder and protector of bony projections, especially in long-term spine surgeries. METHODS: this was a prospective non-randomized study, carried out from 2002 to 2007, with 264 orthopedic procedures. RESULTS: we found that, regardless the time of surgery, there were no areas of pressure around bony prominences or injury of peripheral nerves in the postoperative follow-up. CONCLUSION: those results could recommend the inner tube as an excellent option like a frame in orthopedic surgery. It is an inexpensive device, easy to obtain, and without known complications.
Orthopedic procedures; Spine
