Sims' position (James Marion Sims)

Related people

The lithotomy position to facilitate a vaginal examination.

Description

A semiprone position with patient on left side, right knee and thigh drawn well up, left arm along patient’s back, and chest inclined forward so patient rests upon it. It is the position of choice for administering enemas, because the sigmoid and descending colon are located on the left side of the body. Fluid is readily accepted in this position. Also employed in curettement of uterus, intrauterine irrigation after labour, and rectal examination.

Bibliography

  • J. M. Sims:
    On the treatment of vesico-vaginal fistula.
    American Journal of the Medical Sciences, Thorofare, N.J, 1852, 23 (n..): 59-82.

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