Knowledge, attitude and practice about use of sternal binders post sternotomy in Physiotherapists practicing in cardiac setup in Maharashtra

Median sternotomy is considered to be the gold standard incision in cardiac and thoracic surgical procedures. Despite its advantages, the prevalence of sternal complications has remained relatively unchanged over the past two decades, ranging from 0.4 percent to 8 percent worldwide. Sternal binders are given to the patients to prevent complications like sternal instability, dehiscence and pain. However, sternal binders are prescribed to all patients over a standard timeframe without considering individual differences, risk factors for complications, clinical recovery status. There are also inconsistencies in the type of prescribed binders and the timing of prescription. These inconsistencies may be due to lack of standardised guidelines for the indications, benefits, risk factors and appropriate application of sternal binders potentially compromising patient outcomes. Limited research exists addressing the knowledge, attitude and practice of physiotherapists regarding sternal binders. The aim of this study is to assess knowledge, attitude and practice regarding the use of sternal binders post sternotomy among physiotherapists practicing in cardiac setup in Maharashtra and to address the knowledge gap and variability in practice. A cross sectional analytical study with convenient sampling will be conducted over 12 months with 133 participants. A self-designed questionnaire is developed and validated to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice. Descriptive statistical analysis will be used to interpret the results.