Effect of Postural Changes on Postoperative Hypoxemia

Patients allocated to lateral positioning were placed at 90° on a horizontal bed, supported with a pillow to maintain neutral alignment of the spine and avoid hyperextension or forward flexion of the neck. No preference was specified for left or right lateral decubitus positioning, allowing flexibility based on patient comfort and surgical requirements.

Patients in the semi-recumbent position were placed in the bed and the head of the bed was raised by 30 °, allowing flexibility based on patient comfort and surgical requirements.