COMBINED EFFECTS OF ACBT AND BUTEYKO TECHNIQUES ON AIRWAY CLEARANCE IN POST STERNOTOMY PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Sternotomy, a surgical incision through the sternum, is commonly performed in various cardiopulmonary procedures. Despite its significance in facilitating surgical access, sternotomy is associated with post-operative complications such as respiratory failure, atelectasis, pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Effective respiratory rehabilitation is crucial to mitigate these risks. The Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT) and Buteyko breathing techniques have shown potential in improving lung function and clearing respiratory secretions, reducing the likelihood of post-surgical complications.

Objective: To evaluate the combined effects of ACBT and Buteyko breathing techniques on airway clearance in post-sternotomy patients.

Methods: This randomized clinical trial included 44 post-sternotomy patients selected through non-probability convenience sampling. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. Group A received a combination of ACBT and Buteyko techniques, while Group B was treated with Buteyko techniques and conventional therapy. Both male and female patients aged 40–60 years were included. Pulmonary function tests and the Breathlessness, Cough, and Sputum Scale (BCSS) were used as outcome measures. Data were analyzed using SPSS, applying parametric and non-parametric tests as appropriate.

Results: Group A consisted of 22 patients (15 males, 7 females; mean age 53.77±4.99), while Group B included 22 patients (13 males, 9 females; mean age 54.40±4.89). Significant improvements were observed in both groups. For FVC, Group A improved from 0.86±0.12 L pre-treatment to 1.08±0.12 L post-treatment (p<0.0001), while Group B increased from 0.81±0.92 L to 1.01±0.13 L (p<0.0001). BCSS scores decreased significantly in both groups, from 52.31±14.81 to 16.22±8.91 in Group A and from 48.81±11.47 to 12.86±7.12 in Group B (p<0.0001). Group A showed greater improvement in pulmonary outcomes compared to Group B.

Conclusion: Both ACBT and Buteyko breathing techniques were effective for post-sternotomy patients. However, the combination of ACBT with Buteyko techniques proved superior, demonstrating greater efficacy in improving lung function, enhancing airway clearance, and reducing pulmonary complications.