Pressure Alopecia Following Robotic Gynecological Surgery: Lessons From a Case Series on a Preventable Complication
March 2026
in “
Indian Journal of Anaesthesia
”
Studysummary This study presents a case series highlighting post-operative pressure alopecia as a preventable complication of robotic gynecological surgeries, noting its delayed onset and non-scarring nature, and urging medical teams to implement preventive measures to reduce patient distress, especially among young women.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
This case series investigates pressure alopecia (PA) as a complication following robotic pelvic surgeries, highlighting its occurrence even in surgeries lasting less than 4 hours. Six patients developed occipital pressure-related complications, including transient swelling and hair loss, with complete regrowth observed in all cases. The study emphasizes that factors such as steep Trendelenburg positioning, headrest pressure, and restricted repositioning contribute significantly to PA risk, rather than surgical duration alone. Preventive strategies include proper head positioning, using supportive headrests, and maintaining haemodynamic stability to mitigate this under-recognized complication.
