Aspiration events have a gravity-based predilection, meaning the lobes/ lung segments in the most dependent positions are likely affected. Also, the right main bronchus has a larger luminal diameter and more vertical trajectory than the left main bronchus making it more susceptible to aspirated content.
Lobes of the lungs most likely to be affected by aspiration include:
Upright: The lower lobes (Right>Left)
Supine: Superior segments of the lower lobes (Right>Left) or posterior segment of the RIGHT upper lobe. This is typically in patients with altered LoC (i.e Alcoholics, Intubated patients etc.).
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