Under Pressure? Alopecia Related to Surgical Duration

The document discussed a case of pressure alopecia in a 49-year-old man following a 9-hour and 45-minute microsurgical procedure. The alopecia was attributed to pressure-related ischemia from prolonged immobilization with the patient's scalp resting in a head ring. The hair loss was temporary, with near-normal regrowth at 6 months. The study highlighted the importance of intraoperative pressure-relieving maneuvers, such as regular head repositioning and scalp massage, to prevent postoperative alopecia. It also noted that while pressure-relieving devices like head rings are used, they may not be sufficient for long procedures, and patients should be informed of the potential risk of hair loss during preoperative consultations.