Effect of Buteyko breathing and functional exercise capacity in valvular surgeries. A Randomized controlled trial

The Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT), which is named after its inventor Konstantin Pavlovich Buteyko, is one of the breathing technique that aims to regulate breathing. By alternating between periods of controlled breathing reduction and breath holding. One such key techniques proven to aid in the management of post cardiac surgery pulmonary complication.

The most significant contributor to post-operative complications is prolonged bed rest. Postoperative bed rest can contribute to multiple organ system dysfunction. Immobilization impairs oxygen transport ability, increases the risk of developing lower extremity deep vein thrombosis and even pulmonary thrombo embolism, and causes decrease in muscle mass and muscle strength. Despite these negative effects, bedding is prescribed after surgery. As for patients who had cardiac surgery, activity limitation has been presented to diminish cardiac overload. Early mobilization after surgery has many benefits, including increasing ventilation, muscle strength, and functional ability.

Postoperative pulmonary complications are a common cause of morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, leading to an increase in length of hospital stay and healthcare costs. Breathing therapy exercises are a well-accepted intervention, introduced as treatment for cardiac surgery patients. The aim of these exercises, in the early postoperative period, is to reduce the risk of PPC, functional capacity impairment, and length of hospital stay due to altered pulmonary function.