Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Preoxygenation Techniques for Tracheal Intubation in Critically Ill Adults Utilizing Oxygen Mask and Noninvasive Ventilation
Published on: December 5, 2025
Ramped Position Improves Oxygenation During Mechanical Ventilation for Patients With Severe Obesity
Objective:
Appropriate body positioning is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of mechanical ventilation in patients with obesity. The ramped position is generally used for patients who are difficult to intubate, especially patients with severe obesity. We hypothesized that the ramped position would also improve ventilation and oxygenation in patients with obesity vs the semi-Fowler position.
Methods:
This retrospective study compared data from 17 total patients with obesity (body mass index ≥35 kg/m2) who underwent intubated general anesthesia in the ramped position vs the semi-Fowler position. Differences in 2 indices of respiratory function, alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient (P(A-a)DO2; ventilation) and arterial partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen (P/F ratio; oxygenation), were measured during the maintenance of general anesthesia between the 2 groups.
Results:
The mean (SD) P(A-a)DO2 was significantly lower in the ramped group (168.83 [54.18] mm Hg) than in the semi-Fowler group (273.33 [39.72] mm Hg; P = .012), and the mean (SD) P/F ratio was significantly higher in the ramped group (354.44 [88.88]) than in the semi-Fowler group (225.40 [67.49]; P = .002).
Conclusion:
The ramped position was associated with improved ventilation and pulmonary oxygenation vs the semi-Fowler position during mechanical ventilation in patients with obesity.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation...
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,...
Acute Respiratory Failure-III
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management

