Comparison of thoracic manipulation with incentive spirometry in preventing postoperative atelectasis

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Surgical Complications
• Respiratory Physiology

Background:

• Atelectasis is a common, preventable complication following upper abdominal surgery.
• Post-operative pulmonary complications can significantly impact patient recovery and hospital stay.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of the thoracic lymphatic pump technique versus incentive spirometry in preventing atelectasis after cholecystectomy.
• To evaluate the impact of these interventions on the recovery of respiratory parameters.

Main Methods:

• A 1-year randomized, researcher-blinded trial involving low-risk patients undergoing cholecystectomy.
• Patients were assigned to either the thoracic lymphatic pump (n=21) or incentive spirometry (n=21) groups.
• Preoperative respiratory parameters (forced vital capacity [FVC] and forced expiratory volume in one second [FEV1]) were recorded and compared.

Main Results:

• Atelectasis incidence was similar in both groups, occurring in 2 out of 21 patients (5%) in each arm.
• Patients treated with the thoracic lymphatic pump demonstrated an earlier recovery of FVC and FEV1.
• A quicker return toward preoperative respiratory function values was observed with the thoracic lymphatic pump.

Conclusions:

• Both thoracic lymphatic pump and incentive spirometry are effective in preventing atelectasis post-cholecystectomy.
• The thoracic lymphatic pump technique offers a potential advantage in accelerating respiratory function recovery compared to incentive spirometry.