Effect of breather device on respiratory muscle strength and quality of life in coronary artery bypass grafting patients: A randomised control trial protocol

Abstract

Coronary artery bypass surgery is widely spread and done for multiple vessel disease, and still a well-established therapy option for coronary artery disease. Reduced respiratory muscle strength has been linked to decreased functional capacity in heart surgery, which has been linked to a prolonged recovery period for lung functions and onset of physical deconditioning, which can last for more than a week. Other common postoperative complications include urinary tract infections, renal failure, limb ischemia, pleural effusion, and hematologic abnormalities. Alterations in lung capacity and size, malfunction of the alveoli, decrease in the central respiratory stimulus, and mechanical issues with thoracic function are all brought on by respiratory consequences. Therefore, to prevent or reduce postoperative pulmonary complications, it is typically advised that patients who have had heart surgery engage in breathing exercises and chest physical therapy. The Breather is a breathing apparatus that uses resistance breathing through various-sized orifices to strengthen respiratory muscles. In addition to healthy people and athletes, breather devices can be used for training, therapy, prevention, or rehabilitation of a variety of pulmonary and other disorders. As there is limited literature showing the efficacy of a breather device in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients, therefore a need for a study to find the efficacy of a breather device in assessing strength of respiratory muscle and quality of life in CABG patients. Treatment will be given for three weeks with five sessions per week twice a day. Pre- and post-treatment outcomes will be noted. In this study, results are expected to prove the Breather device is as effective or more effective than conventional chest physiotherapy for refining respiratory muscle strength and quality of life. CTRI registration: CTRI/2023/05/053052