Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026

Effects of Surgical Masks on Cardiopulmonary Function in Healthy Subjects
Published on: February 12, 2021
Effects of Respiratory Muscle Training Pre- and Post-Cardiac Surgery in Adults: A Scoping Review
Giulia Starko1, Daniel Müller2, Antoine Lipka1
1Department of Health, LUNEX University of Applied Sciences, 4671 Differdange, Luxembourg.
Background:
Coronary artery bypass grafts (CABGs) and cardiac valve replacement surgeries (CVRSs) are common lifesaving cardiac surgeries. They are linked to an increased risk of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs). This review scopes the effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on adult patients, considering mainly exercise capacity, lung function, and the occurrence of PPCs.
Methods:
This scoping review was built using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Four databases were searched in May 2024. Three reviewers independently screened the articles. The data were extracted and summarised in text and tables.
Results:
Five studies were included in the final analysis, where IMT was compared to sham or placebo IMT, and some studies added an exercise program to both groups. PeakVO2, the six-minute walking test (6MWT), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), quality of life (QoL), PPCs, and spirometry outcomes showed significant improvements between the intervention group (IG) and control group (CG) and intragroup over time.
Conclusions:
IMT can be a non-conventional training method to prevent respiratory muscle weakness. It can be applied in pre- or post-surgical contexts, potentially affecting exercise capacity and quality of life in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
Related Concept Videos
Mechanism of Breathing III: The Accessory Muscles
The respiratory system is a complex network that relies on primary respiratory muscles like the diaphragm, but also involves accessory muscles to enhance lung expansion and airflow during both inhalation and exhalation.
Enhancing Inhalation with Accessory Muscles:
Accessory muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, scalene, intercostal, and abdominal muscles are crucial when additional respiratory effort is required, such as during deep...
Respiratory Assessment: Purpose and Indications
Objectives and Importance:
The primary goal of respiratory assessment is to evaluate patients at early risk of clinical deterioration. Since respiratory distress often precedes other signs of declining health, breathing patterns and sounds become a...
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Skeletal Muscle Relaxants: Therapeutic Uses
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Cardiomyopathy VII: Pre and Post Operative Nursing Management

