Evidence regarding patient compliance with incentive spirometry interventions after cardiac, thoracic and abdominal surgeries: A systematic literature review

Abstract

Reducing postoperative pulmonary complications by improving postoperative lung expansion and ventilation is a primary goal after major thoracic surgeries, and can directly impact morbidity and downstream health care costs. Although deep breathing exercises, with or without devices, have demonstrated efficacy, the evidence regarding the utility of incentive spirometry has been inconclusive. Accordingly, this comprehensive literature search and review examined selected randomized controlled trials investigating several aspects of incentive spirometry interventions.