[Prevention of postoperative pulmonary complications by preoperative training].
Postoperative pulmonary complications are the main cause of morbidity and mortality after surgery. A likely explanation is dysfunction of the respiratory muscles, in particular the diaphragm, which results in rapid, shallow breathing and ultimately-in closing of the airways, atelectasis and hypoxaemia. Breathing exercises in the perioperative period, despite a good rationale, were in general not found to be effective. A promising new approach is specific training of inspiratory muscles. A randomized clinical trial, published in this issue of the journal, found this to be effective in patients at increased risk for postoperative complications who underwent cardiac surgery.
van 't Hul
A J
AJ
Stichting Revalidatiecentrum Breda, Brabantlaan 1, 4817 JW Breda. a.vanthul@rcbreda.nl
Postmus
P E
PE
D001945:Breathing Exercises; D006801:Humans; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011300:Preoperative Care / Q000379:methods*; D012129:Respiratory Function Tests; D012307:Risk Factors; D019616:Thoracic Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects*