Quantitative Assessment of Pulmonary Function Distribution in the Sitting, Supine, and Prone Postures Using PREFUL MRI with an Open Scanner

Motivation: Regional variations in pulmonary ventilation and perfusion profoundly impacts respiratory function; understanding their distribution and underlying mechanisms is critical for improving therapeutic interventions and patient outcomes. Goal(s): To investigate the redistribution of regional lung function between different postures in both the apex-to-base and anterior-to-posterior directions. Approach: Participants were investigated sagittally using an Open 0.5T MRI in three postures: sitting, supine and prone to vary the relative direction of gravity experienced by the lungs. Results: Results showed significant redistribution of lung function between each of the three postures, both in the apical-to-basal and anterior-to-posterior directions. Impact: A deeper understanding of lung function variability in response to postural changes will enhance clinical decision-making in pulmonary medicine. Additionally, posture dependent lung function could serve as a marker for lung disease and support stratified treatment approaches.