Effectiveness of Physiotherapy Interventions in Pleural Effusion Patients: A Comprehensive Review

Pleural effusion, characterized by the accumulation of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura, presents significant challenges in patient management, particularly in cases of malignant pleural effusion. Despite various therapeutic options, there is a need to evaluate the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions specifically for pleural effusion patients, as current literature predominantly focuses on medical and surgical treatments. This comprehensive review aims to address this research gap by systematically analyzing the impact of physiotherapy on pleural effusion management, with a focus on symptom relief and improvement in quality of life. The objective is to determine the role of physiotherapy in reducing hospital stay and enhancing patient outcomes. Methodologically, this review synthesizes data from clinical studies and case reports that document physiotherapy interventions, such as breathing exercises, postural drainage, and mobilization techniques, in the treatment of pleural effusion. Our findings suggest that physiotherapy interventions can significantly alleviate dyspnoea and improve respiratory function, contributing to better overall patient outcomes. These results underscore the importance of incorporating physiotherapy into the standard care protocol for patients presenting with pleural effusion to optimize recovery and quality of life.