LateralDecubitus

Lateral decubitus is a medical position in which a patient lies on their side with the lateral surface down. The side on which the patient lies may be described as left lateral decubitus or right lateral decubitus, depending on which side is down. The position is used to facilitate examination, imaging, and certain procedures by allowing gravity to separate structures and bring specific organs closer to the surface being examined.

In radiology, lateral decubitus views are used to detect small pleural effusions and to delineate air-fluid levels in the chest or abdomen when upright imaging is not feasible. For chest imaging, the patient can lie on the side corresponding to the area of interest to reveal layering of fluid or air against the dependent chest wall, aiding diagnostic clarity.

In echocardiography, the left lateral decubitus position is the standard posture for transthoracic imaging because it brings the heart closer to the chest wall and improves acoustic windows, allowing better visualization of cardiac structures and function.

In surgical and procedural contexts, the lateral decubitus position is employed for thoracic and retroperitoneal operations, as well as procedures such as thoracentesis or nephrectomy. Patients are positioned with the operative side up in many cases to facilitate access, while careful padding and support minimize nerve compression and other complications.

Safety and considerations include the risk of pressure ulcers, neuropathies (such as brachial plexus or peroneal nerve injury), and vascular or respiratory compromise. In obstetric care, the left lateral decubitus position is recommended in late pregnancy to reduce aortocaval compression and improve maternal and fetal perfusion.