Positioning effects on lung function and breathing pattern in premature newborns.

Objective: To compare breathing patterns and lung function in the supine, lateral, and prone positions in oxygen-dependent preterm infants.

Study Design: Respiratory function in preterm infants receiving nasal continous positive airway pressure therapy for mild respiratory failure was evaluated by respiratory inductive plethysmography. Infants were randomized to supine, left lateral, and prone positions for 3 hours.