A position in which a person lies on his or her back with the knees flexed. May be achieved passively (e.g., using a bed that conforms to this position) or actively (e.g., by flexing the knees, separating the legs, and placing the feet flat on the same surface). Similar to the dorsal recumbent position, except in the lithotomy position, the feet are secured in place and the pelvis is placed at the end of a table that is specifically designed to accommodate this position. Often used to facilitate childbirth or a pelvic examination or procedure.
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