# Effectiveness of Incentive Spirometry Versus Deep Breathing Exercises in Preventing Postoperative Pulmonary Complications After Abdominal Surgery: A Comprehensive Review

## TL;DR

This review compares incentive spirometry and deep breathing exercises in preventing lung issues after abdominal surgery, finding both effective for recovery.

## Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive review comparing two pulmonary rehabilitation techniques for postoperative care after abdominal surgery.

## Key findings

- Both incentive spirometry and deep breathing exercises are effective in preventing postoperative pulmonary complications.
- These techniques improve the recovery of pulmonary function after abdominal surgeries.
- Enhancing patient compliance with incentive spirometry is recommended for better outcomes.

## Abstract

This article review was conducted to evaluate the evidence of the use of an incentive spirometer (IS) versus deep breathing exercise (DBE) for the prevention of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) after abdominal surgeries (upper and lower abdominal surgeries). Searches were performed in the following databases: PubMed, Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus to select articles and randomized controlled trials in which IS and DBE were used in the pre- and/or postoperative period in order to prevent PPCs and/or recover lung function after abdominal surgeries. The review concludes that implementing DBE and IS in the perioperative care of patients undergoing abdominal surgery is effective in preventing PPCs and improving recovery of pulmonary function. These findings support the integration of these techniques into standard postoperative care protocols to enhance patient outcomes following surgery with further recommendations to enhance patient compliance with IS.