Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Preoxygenation Techniques for Tracheal Intubation in Critically Ill Adults Utilizing Oxygen Mask and Noninvasive Ventilation
Published on: December 5, 2025
[Effect of position on oxygenation in neonates after weaning from mechanical ventilation]
Wen-Xiu Yao1, Xin-Dong Xue, Jian-Hua Fu
1Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110003, China.
Objective:
What is the best suitable position for neonates who were weaned from mechanical ventilation has not been identified. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the supine and prone positions on oxygenation in neonates within 6 hrs after weaning from mechanical ventilation.
Methods:
Sixty neonates who were weaned from mechanical ventilation were randomly given prone or supine position (n=30 each). They all received oxygen inspiration and SPO2 was maintained in a normal range by adjusting the oxygen flow rate (FiO2). Blood PaO2 and PaCO2 levels were measured 1 and 6 hrs after weaning and then the alveolodouble ended arrowarterial oxygen partial pressure difference (A-aDO2), respiratory index and oxygenation index were calculated.
Results:
Mean FiO2 used in the prone position group was significantly lower than that in the supine position group 1 and 6 hrs after weaning (P<0.01). The value of A-aDO2 in the prone position group 1 hr (171.06+/-86.55 vs 253.62+/-71.56; P<0.01) and 6 hrs after weaning (105.85+/-78.18 vs 208.48+/-86.80; P<0.01) were significantly lower than that in the supine position group. The respiratory index in the prone position group 1 and 6 hrs after weaning (2.16+/-1.24 and 1.35+/-1.11) was also reduced compared to 3.74+/-1.68 and 3.65+/-1.28 in the supine position group (P<0.01). In contrast, PaO2 in the prone position group 1 hr (88.70+/-32.65 vs 73.43+/-17.68; P<0.01) and 6 hrs (84.10+/-13.95 vs 70.20+/-20.27; P<0.01) after weaning was significantly higher than that in the supine position group. The oxygenation index in the prone position group 1 and 6 hrs after weaning (213.49+/-88.96 and 275.23+/-108.83) increased significantly compared to 141.54+/-43.25 and 160.62+/-63.03 in the supine position (P<0.01).
Conclusions:
The prone position is better than the supine position for the improvement of oxygenation within 6 hrs after weaning from mechanical ventilation in neonates.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV)
Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
Oxygen Delivering System I: Nasal Cannula and Face Mask
Nasal Cannula
A nasal cannula is a lightweight tube split at one end into two prongs and placed in the nostrils. It is typically used to deliver low to medium levels of oxygen.
Suggested flow rate: The suggested flow rate for a nasal cannula typically ranges between 1 and 6 L/min.
Oxygen percentage setting:...
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Physiological Control of Respiration
Breathing, a seemingly passive process, is regulated by the respiratory center in the brainstem. This center coordinates the involuntary control of respirations, which means it occurs without conscious effort, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted pattern.
Regulation of Ventilation
The body maintains ventilation by monitoring levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen ion concentration (pH) in the arterial blood. Among these factors, the level of CO2 plays a crucial...
Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings
