The Effect of Incentive Spirometry on Postoperative Pulmonary Function Following Laparotomy A Randomized Clinical Trial

摘要

IMPORTANCE Changes in pulmonary dynamics following laparotomy are well documented. Deep breathing exercises, with or without incentive spirometry, may help counteract postoperative decreased vital capacity; however, the evidence for the role of incentive spirometry in the prevention of postoperative atelectasis is inconclusive. Furthermore, data are scarce regarding the prevention of postoperative atelectasis in sub-Saharan Africa.