The effectiveness of manual hyperinflation during the physiotherapy management of acute atelectasis: a case report

Abstract

Atelectasis is common in intubated and ventilated patients. The reasons for the atelectasis are multifactorial. Atelectasis, if prolonged, may lead to hypoxaemia, pulmonary infection and fibrosis. The effectiveness of manual hyperinflation as an adjunct to standard respiratory physiotherapy management of patients in the ICU to re-inflate collapsed lung regions, to improve gas exchange and respiratory compliance and to assist with the removal of secretions, have been proclaimed by numerous authors. This case report demonstrates the effectiveness of the addition of manual hyperinflation to the physiotherapy management of an intubated patient with acute atelectasis.

Keywords

• acute atelectasis
• aspiration
• manual hyperinflation
• modified postural drainage