The prone position is a maneuver used to combat hypoxemia in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Despite the fact that this is currently considered an efficient way to improve oxygenation, the physiological mechanisms that bring about improvements in respiratory function are not yet fully understood. The aim of this review is to discuss the physiological and clinical aspects of the prone position in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Keywords: Prone position/physiology; Respiratory distress syndrome, adult; Lung/injuries; Posture/physiology; Supine position/physiology; Anoxemia; Pulmonary gas exchange; Hemodynamic processes