Parachute-like harness to position patients with severe kyphosis during cataract surgery.

We describe a technique to position patients with severe kyphosis so the head is horizontal. The legs are lifted into the Trendelenburg position, and the patient is supported with straps similar to those of a parachute. Although the patient's legs are high above the head and jugular distension has been observed, we have not noticed posterior pressure in the 2 cases we describe. This technique is similar to that described by others but has the additional security of the parachute-like straps.