| Physiologic effect | Clinical result |
Improved configuration between lung and thorax |
Heart is dependent | More homogeneous Ppl gradient in ventrodorsal and cephalocaudal planes | Improved ventilation distribution |
Smaller volume of dependent lung | | Increased FRC (↓ shunt) |
Abdomen is unsupported* |
Secretion mobilization | Improved bronchial drainage | Improved ventilation |
Improved aerosol delivery | Improved effect of aerosolized meds | Improved ventilation |
More homogeneous perfusion | Less dependent perfusion | Improved V/Q matching (↓ shunt) |