Does physiotherapy reduce the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications following pulmonary resection via open thoracotomy? A preliminary randomised single-blind clinical trial

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates whether targeted postoperative respiratory physiotherapy decreased the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications and length of stay for patients undergoing elective pulmonary resection via open thoracotomy. Methods: Seventy-six patients participated in a prospective, single-blind, parallel-group, randomised trial with concealed allocation, assessor blinding and intention-to-treat analysis. Treatment group participants received daily respiratory physiotherapy interventions until discharge. Control group participants received standard medical/nursing care involving a clinical pathway. The presence of postoperative pulmonary complications was assessed..