Methods of aiding respiratory function in the perioperative period

Many patients in the post-operative period require breathing support from passive oxygen therapy, for example through the oxygen-breathing mask, through intubation, ventilation through the intubation tube with the Ambu bag (for a short while) to respirator therapy. The following respiratory disorders caused by complications can develop in the post-operative period:
• barotrauma during artificial ventilation,
• shallow breathing with coexisting pain within the wound,
• fall in haemoglobin as a result of severe loss of blood,
• late respiratory insufficiency after ductal administration of a drug,
• aspiration of chime to the respiratory tract.
Aiding respiratory function improves ventilation of the lungs and it prevents respiratory complications. Physical and breathing exercises before the operation have a beneficial effect on respiratory function after the operation. There are modern facilities for the rehabilitation of the respiratory system aiding pharmacotherapy in chronic diseases of the respiratory system and in the perioperative period. There are the following methods of aiding the respiratory function: prevention of increasing the lung capacity – general improving and breathing exercises, physiotherapy of the chest – chest percussion therapy, vibratory massage, dependent drainage and oxygen therapy.