Efficacy of Programmed Physiotherapy Rehabilitation in Pneumonectomy Patients: A Case Series

Abstract

There are numerous causes associated with pneumonectomy like bronchial carcinoma, bronchiectasis, destroyed lung due to pulmonary tuberculosis, and many more. Pneumonectomy causes several pulmonary complications secondary to it. However, few evidences are available on effectiveness of chest physical therapy rehabilitation in reducing the complications in pneumonectomy patients. This case series reflects on effectiveness of early and routine physical therapy in preventing post-operative complications. This series includes two cases. First case was a45 year old female who had pneumonectomy due to carcinoma. She had post-operative pain and discomfort. Second case was a53 year old male patient with pneumonectomy due to tuberculosis.He had pain, breathlessness, respiratory muscle wasting and weakness as well as abnormal postural traits after five years of pneumonectomy. Diagnosis, Intervention and outcome:Case-1:Pneumonectomy secondary to squamous cell carcinoma. Case-2: Pneumonectomy secondary to tuberculosis. Intervention includedphysical therapy, exercise and ed cation program with use of manual and mechanical devices.Outcomes included improvedmuscle strength, improved functional independency and improved Quality of Life. AprogrammedPhysiotherapy rehabilitationis effective in maintaining functional independence, improve quality of life and preventany post-opt complications.