Optimisation of V/Q matching
Increase in FRC
Decreased atelectasis
Facilitates secretion drainage
Heart sits against the sternum (rather than left lung), therefore the lung is less compressed
Decreased transpleural pressure gradient between dependent and non-dependent lung in the prone position
Plateau pressure is more uniformly distributed when prone -> more uniform alveolar ventilation
Recruitment manoeuvres have been shown to be more effective in the prone position
Alterations in chest wall mechanics -> allowing lungs to inflate at lower pressures
Dorsoventral orientation of large airways
