Effects of the prone position on gas exchange and hemodynamics in severe acute respiratory distress syndrome

Based on the data from this study, the prone position can improve oxygenation in severely hypoxemic ARDS patients without deleterious effects on hemodynamics. This beneficial effect does not immediately disappear on return to the supine position. In our patients, an absence of response to this technique was not accompanied by worsening hypoxemia or hemodynamic instability. Repeated daily trials in the prone position should be considered in the management of ARDS patients with severe hypoxemia.