Effect of Lateral Positions on the Shape of Upper Airway

The severity and frequency of respiratory events is increased in the supine body posture compared with the lateral position in emergency, difficult airway patients. The mechanism responsible is not clear but may relate to the effect of position on upper airway shape and size. 3D finite element model of upper airway filling based on MRI image reconstruction can effectively reflect the anatomy of the upper airway. This study compared the effect of body position on upper airway shape and size in individuals with lateral position among sedated subjects.