Pulmonary Blood Flow Distribution at Different Lung Volumes and Body Positions

Abstract

In 12 healthy young subjects the distribution of perfusion and lung volumes were studied in the supine, sitting, and right lateral body positions at RV, FRC, and TLC. In the supine position lung volume changes had little influence on the distribution of perfusion, while in the sitting position apical perfusion increased at RV and decreased at TLC. In the right lateral position the perfusion of the lower lung increased at TLC but was unchanged at RV.

Key Words:

• Body position
• lung volumes
• pulmonary circulation
• radiospirometry
• regional lung function
• xenon radioactive