- Improved V/Q matching (1) (probably most important factor)
- More uniform distribution of ventilation and perfusion
- Prevents atelectatic bases receiving highest blood flow
- A relative increase in functional residual capacity (1)
- Reduction of cephalad pressure on the diaphragm
- Reopening of atelectatic segments
- More homogeneous ventilation (1) :
- Reduces the difference between the dorsal and ventral pleural pressure
- Protective against ventilator-associated lung injury – less cyclical atelectasis and alveolar overdistension
- Less lung deformation (1)
- Less compression of the lungs by the heart (which sits on the sternum in the prone position)
- Less compression by the abdominal content. ·
- Improved drainage of secretions (1) :
- The orientation of large airways apparently enhances the drainage of respiratory secretions and aspirated material
- Improved mechanics of the chest wall in obesity (1)
