Comparisons of the clinical outcomes, lung functions test and computer-aided chest radiography analysis on the effect of incentive spirometry device in post cardiac surgery patients

Abstract

Purposes : To study the effectiveness of breathing exercises using the inspiratory effort stimulator device (BreatheMAX®) on lung volume in heart surgery patients, and to determine the correlation between lung volume and pulmonary function test (spirometer) values after surgery.

Study design : Retrospective research.

Materials and Methods : Data was collected from medical records and electronic databases of heart disease patients undergoing open-heart surgery at Khon Kaen Hospital from January to December 2017. Patients were divided into two groups: the intervention group (using BreatheMAX®) and the control group (performing deep breathing exercises). Lung volumes were measured from chest X-rays by physical therapists. Data was analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, and comparisons were made within and between the groups before and after the exercises.

Main findings : Before surgery, there was no significant difference in lung volume between the two groups. However, immediately after surgery (Post-op day 0), lung volume decreased significantly in both groups without a statistically significant difference. By post-op days 1 and 2, the intervention group showed significantly better lung recovery compared to the control group. Additionally, lung volume measured on post-op day 1 had a strong correlation with actual values on day 5 for SVC, PEFR, and VT, indicating these measurements can predict pulmonary function recovery.

Conclusion and recommendations : Breathing exercises using the device show potential in enhancing lung expansion recovery in heart surgery patients, particularly in the early postoperative phase. Lung volume measurements are strongly correlated with spirometer indicators, but other factors should also be considered, and a more comprehensive assessment of lung function is necessary. Long-term outcome studies are recommended.