Effect of 4-7-8 breathing control at 6 and 8 cycles per set on heart rate variability, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation in patients after coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a surgical procedure to restore normal blood flow to heart by bypassing the blocked coronary arteries and is considered an important approach for treating coronary heart disease. Cardiac surgical procedures are performed with the aim of prolonging life and improving quality of life. Postoperative physiotherapy, including early mobilization and breathing exercises, is part of standard care during the first days after cardiac surgery, mainly aimed at preventing postoperative complications, improving lung function and postoperative physical recovery. Deep breathing exercises are recommended during the first postoperative period to enhance recovery of pulmonary function. 4-7-8 breathing at 6 and 8 cycles per set is slow paced and deep breathing exercise but their comparative efficacy in CABG patients during Phase 1 of cardiac rehabilitation has been understudied.

This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effect of 4-7-8 breathing control at 6 and 8 cycles per set on heart rate variability, blood pressure and oxygen saturation in patients after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Procedure : Participants will be randomized and screened based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Details about the study and intervention will be explained to the participants and an informed written consent form will be obtained. Patient’s will be randomized into Group A(4-7-8 breathing control at 6 cycles per set)  and Group B (4-7-8 breathing control at 8 cycles per set)  using Block randomization technique. Outcomes for the same will be assessed on postoperative day 1 and treatment will be administered from day 1 till day 6 to patients who underwent CABG surgery and later on day 6 outcomes will be reassessed. Data will be collected from both the groups and analyzed using statistical tests for significant differences in heart rate variability, blood pressure and oxygen saturation improvements in Post-CABG patients.