Assess the effectiveness of deep breathing exercise with incentive spirometry on respiratory status of patients who undergone cardiothoracic surgery

Abstract

Background: cardiac surgery is an effective treatment for patients with advanced coronary heart disease; it carries a risk for serious non-cardiac complications, such as pulmonary impairments. Pulmonary complications are common following heart surgeries and replacement of diseased valves is often associated with more significant morbidity, prolonged hospital stay and mortality. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of deep breathing exercises with Incentive Spirometry (IS) and preventing pul­monary complications following cardiothoracic Surgery. Methods: In a random clinical trial, 50 adult male and female patients, who had undergone cardiothoracic surgery, were randomly assigned into two equal groups. The first group allowed to mobilization and Active exercises of the upper limbs and thorax, breathing exercises with incentive spirometry and instructions in coughing techniques. Patients were mobilized as early as possible by the nursing staff and physiotherapists. The second group takes hospital routine care only. Results: Parameters of pulmonary function as regards VC and FVC differ significantly between study group post the deep breathing exercise with incentive spirometry and significant improvement was detected in study group after the program. There was no significant differences post deep breathing exercise with incentive spirometry of the study and control groups regards pulmonary complications. Conclusion: deep breathing exercises with incentive spirometry is more effective in preventing postopera­tive complications following cardio-thorax surgery. Moreover, significant improvement was detected in pulmonary function test in study group after use of incentive spirometry .