Abstract
Objectives: In Sweden breathing exercises with Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) are commonly recommended for the prevention of pulmonary complications after abdominal surgery. Scientific documentation of the effects of PEP treatment is limited. The aim of this national survey was to describe the current physical therapy practice of PEP treatment after abdominal surgery in Sweden. Methods: A questionnaire was sent by e-mail to the 45 physical therapists who work with abdominal surgery patients in all seven university hospitals in Sweden. The questionnaire contained questions about the usage of PEP after abdominal surgery. Results: In total, 24 (54%) of the physical therapists answered the questionnaire. All reported using PEP as a treatment option after abdominal surgery. The most commonly used PEP device was the Blow bottle system and the PEP ventil system connected to a mouthpiece. Recommendations regarding treatment frequency and implementation varied significantly across respondents. The number of breaths per treatment varied considerably. Conclusion: All respondentsreported using PEP as a postoperative treatment on abdominal surgery wards. The treatment is most often recommended hourly during the first postoperative days. The common first-choice PEP devices were the Blow bottle system, Pep/Rmt set with mouthpiece or mask, Breathing exerciser/PEP valve system 22, and the Mini-PEP.
Highlights
Postoperative pulmonary complications, such as atelectasis, pneumonia, respiratory failure, sputum retention and shortness of breath, is of major concern after abdominal surgery [1]
The study was based on a national postal questionnaire sent to every physical therapistworking on abdominal surgery wards and/or in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) in all seven university hospitals in Sweden
Of the remaining 44 physical therapists, 24 (54%) returned the questionnaire, representing all seven university hospitals
Summary
Postoperative pulmonary complications, such as atelectasis, pneumonia, respiratory failure, sputum retention and shortness of breath, is of major concern after abdominal surgery [1]. Few interventions have clearly been shown to reduce the pulmonary complication rate [2]. To prevent or treat these complications, preand postoperative chest physical therapy is often prescribed. Deep breathing exercises with Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) are regularly suggested to patients who are unable to take deep breaths after abdominal surgery. The technique provides resistance on expiration and aims to improve lung volumes and to facilitate secretion mobilization, the physiological explanation for these outcomes is unclear. Several assistive PEP devices have been developed, including the blow bottle system, PEP masks, and valves. The technique can be carried out through pursed-lip breathing, which does not require equipment
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
