A comprehensive physical functional assessment of survivors of critical care unit stay due to COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the physical function and respiratory muscle strength of patients - who recovered from critical COVID-19 - after intensive care unit discharge to the ward on Days one (D1) and seven (D7), and to investigate variables associated with functional impairment. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study of adult patients with COVID-19 who needed invasive mechanical ventilation, non-invasive ventilation or high-flow nasal cannula and were discharged from the intensive care unit to the ward. Participants were submitted to Medical Research Council sum-score, handgrip strength, maximal inspiratory pressure, maximal expiratory pressure, and short physical performance battery tests. Participants were grouped into two groups according to their need for invasive ventilation: the Invasive Mechanical Ventilation Group (IMV Group) and the Non-Invasive Mechanical Ventilation Group (Non-IMV Group). RESULTS: Patients in the IMV Group (n = 31) were younger and had higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores than those in the Non-IMV Group (n = 33). The short physical performance battery scores (range 0 - 12) on D1 and D7 were 6.1 ± 4.3 and 7.3 ± 3.8, respectively for the Non-Invasive Mechanical Ventilation Group, and 1.3 ± 2.5 and 2.6 ± 3.7, respectively for the IMV Group. The prevalence of intensive care unit-acquired weakness on D7 was 13% for the Non-IMV Group and 72% for the IMV Group. The maximal inspiratory pressure, maximal expiratory pressure, and handgrip strength increased on D7 in both groups, but the maximal expiratory pressure and handgrip strength were still weak. Only maximal inspiratory pressure was recovered (i.e., > 80% of the predicted value) in the Non-IMV Group. Female sex, and the need and duration of invasive mechanical were independently and negatively associated with the short physical performance battery score and handgrip strength. CONCLUSION: Patients who recovered from critical COVID-19 and who received invasive mechanical ventilation presented greater disability than those who were not invasively ventilated. However, they both showed marginal functional improvement during early recovery, regardless of the need for invasive mechanical ventilation. This might highlight the severity of disability caused by SARS-CoV-2.

Impact of Preoperative Functional Capacity on Postoperative Outcomes in Congenital Heart Surgery: An Observational and Prospective Study. / Impacto da Capacidade Funcional Pré-operatória nos Resultados Pós-Operatórios de Cirurgia de Cardiopatia Congênita: Estudo Observacional e Prospectivo.

BACKGROUND: Despite advances in surgical technique and postoperative care in congenital heart disease, cardiovascular morbidity is still high. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between preoperative cardiovascular fitness of children and adolescents, measured by the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV), and the occurrence of cardiogenic, septic shock and death in the postoperative period. METHODS: Prospective, observational clinic study including 81 patients aged from 8 to 18 years. In the preoperative period, the 6MWT (distance walked and SpO2) and HRV were performed. The adjusted risk score for surgeries for congenital heart disease (RACHS-1) was applied to predict the surgical risk factor for mortality. The occurrence of at least one of the listed complications was considered as a combined event. P values < 0.05 were considered as significant. RESULTS: Of the patients, 59% were male, with mean age of 12 years; 33% were cyanotic; and 72% had undergone previous cardiac surgery. Cardiogenic shock was the most common complication, and 31% had a combined event. Prior to surgery, type of current heart disease, RACHS-1, SpO2at rest, during the 6MWT and recovery were selected for the multivariate analysis. The SpO2at recovery by the 6MWT remained as an independent risk factor (OR 0.93, 95%CI [0.88 - 0.99], p=0.02) for the increasing occurrence of combined events. CONCLUSION: SpO2after the application of the 6MWT in the preoperative period was an independent predictor of prognosis in children and adolescents undergoing surgical correction; the walked distance and the HRV did not present this association.

FUNDAMENTO: Apesar de avanços em técnicas cirúrgicas e cuidados pós-operatórios em cardiopatia congênita, a morbidade cardiovascular permanece elevada. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação do condicionamento pré-operatório de crianças e adolescentes com cardiopatias, mensurado por teste de caminhada de 6-minutos (TC6M) e variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC), com a ocorrência de choque cardiogênico, séptico e morte no período pós-operatório. MÉTODOS: Estudo clínico prospectivo e observacional de 81 pacientes de 8 a 18 anos. No período pré-operatório foram realizados o TC6M (distância caminhada e SpO2) e a VFC. O escore de risco ajustado para cirurgia de cardiopatia congênita ( RACHS-1 ) foi aplicado para predizer o fator de risco cirúrgico para mortalidade. A ocorrência de pelo menos uma das complicações citadas foi considerada como evento combinado. Valores de p<0,05 foram considerados significantes. RESULTADOS: Dos 81 pacientes, 59% eram do sexo masculino, com idade média de 12 anos; 33% eram cianóticos; e 72% já tinham realizado cirurgias prévias. O choque cardiogênico foi a complicação mais comum, e 31% apresentaram evento combinado. Cirurgia prévia, tipo de cardiopatia atual, RACHS-1 , SpO2 em repouso, durante e após recuperação do TC6M foram selecionados para o estudo multivariado. A SpO2 após o TC6M permaneceu como fator de risco independente para aumentar a ocorrência de evento combinado no pós-operatório (OR: 0,93, IC95% [0,88 ­ 0,99], p=0,02). CONCLUSÃO: O SpO2 após o TC6M no período pré-operatório foi o fator independente preditor de prognóstico no pós-operatório em crianças e adolescentes submetidos à correção cirúrgica; a distância caminhada e as variáveis da VFC não tiveram a mesma associação.

Efficacy of diaphragmatic breathing in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

This study investigated the effects of diaphragmatic breathing (DB) on ventilation and breathing pattern, seeking to identify predictors of its efficacy in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Twenty-nine patients with moderate and severe COPD were monitored using respiratory inductance plethysmography and metabolic gas analysis. After 4 minutes of natural breathing, subjects completed 2 minutes of DB followed by 4 minutes of natural breathing. Dyspnea was measured using a visual analogue scale. Diaphragmatic mobility was assessed using chest radiography. DB was associated with a significant increase in tidal volume and reduction in breathing frequency, leading to higher ventilation and oxygen saturation, with a reduction in dead space ventilation and ventilatory equivalent for carbon dioxide. A total of 10 subjects with moderate (5) and severe (5) COPD performed DB with asynchronous thoracoabdominal motion, worsening the dyspnea, and decreasing the gain of tidal volume. Diaphragmatic mobility, inspiratory muscular strength, lower scores for dyspnea and hypoxemia as well as coordinated thoracoabdominal motion are associated with effective DB. In patients with COPD, DB can improve breathing pattern and ventilatory efficiency without causing dyspnea in patients whose respiratory muscular system is preserved.

Exercise-induced desaturation in subjects with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis: laboratory-based tests versus field-based exercise tests.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the validity of field walking tests to identify exercise-induced hypoxemia and to compare cardiorespiratory responses and perceived effort between laboratory-based and field-based exercise tests in subjects with bronchiectasis. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving 72 non-oxygen-dependent participants (28 men; mean age = 48.3 ± 14.5 years; and mean FEV1 = 54.1 ± 23.4% of the predicted value). The participants underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) on a treadmill and constant work-rate exercise testing (CWRET) on the same day (1 h apart). In another visit, they underwent incremental shuttle walk testing (ISWT) and endurance shuttle walk testing (ESWT; 1 h apart). Desaturation was defined as a reduction in SpO2 ≥ 4% from rest to peak exercise. RESULTS: CPET results were compared with ISWT results, as were CWRET results with ESWT results. There was no difference in the magnitude of desaturation between CPET and ISWT (-7.7 ± 6.3% vs. -6.6 ± 5.6%; p = 0.10) and between CWRET and ESWT (-6.8 ± 5.8% vs. -7.2 ± 6.3%; p = 0.50). The incremental tests showed an agreement in the magnitude of desaturation in the desaturation and no desaturation groups (42 and 14 participants, respectively; p < 0.01), as did the endurance tests (39 and 16 participants; p < 0.01). The magnitude of desaturation was similar among the participants who did or did not reach at least 85% of the maximum predicted HR. CONCLUSIONS: Field exercise tests showed good precision to detect desaturation. Field tests might be an alternative to laboratory tests when the clinical question is to investigate exercise-induced desaturation in subjects with bronchiectasis.

Infra-Abdominal Muscles Activation Brings Benefits to the Pulmonary Function of Patients with Sternal Instability after Cardiac Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To compare physical therapy strategies involving abdominal muscle stabilization, with and without upper limb movement, in patients with sternal instability after heart surgery and during in-hospital care. METHODS: This prospective, longitudinal, randomized, and comparative clinical study included 20 patients, which were divided into two groups: ARM, the arm group (n=10), and LEG, the leg group (n=10). The study involved the evaluation of scores of visual analog scales for sternal instability, pain, discomfort, functional impairment, lung function, and maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) before and after the interventions. Two protocols consisting of abdominal exercises in both groups with upper limb movements (ARM) and just abdominal activation with leg movements (LEG) were used for three weeks. RESULTS: There were statistically significant (P≤0.01) improvements in pain, discomfort, and functional impairment scores, and in MIP (P=0.04) and MEP (P≤0.01) after intervention in both groups and just LEG showed improvement in forced vital capacity (P=0.043) and forced expiratory volume in one second (P=0.011). CONCLUSION: Both strategies promoted improvement in pain, discomfort, and functional impairment scores and in the values of inspiratory and expiratory pressures. Perhaps they were influenced by the time and resolution of the infection process, although exercises with upper limb movements seem to be safe in this population. The activation of the infra-abdominal muscles through leg movements seems to bring more benefits to lung function.

A comprehensive physical functional assessment of survivors of critical care unit stay due to COVID-19 / Avaliação físico-funcional abrangente de sobreviventes de internação em unidade de terapia intensiva devido à COVID-19

ABSTRACT Objective: To examine the physical function and respiratory muscle strength of patients - who recovered from critical COVID-19 - after intensive care unit discharge to the ward on Days one (D1) and seven (D7), and to investigate variables associated with functional impairment. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study of adult patients with COVID-19 who needed invasive mechanical ventilation, non-invasive ventilation or high-flow nasal cannula and were discharged from the intensive care unit to the ward. Participants were submitted to Medical Research Council sum-score, handgrip strength, maximal inspiratory pressure, maximal expiratory pressure, and short physical performance battery tests. Participants were grouped into two groups according to their need for invasive ventilation: the Invasive Mechanical Ventilation Group (IMV Group) and the Non-Invasive Mechanical Ventilation Group (Non-IMV Group). Results: Patients in the IMV Group (n = 31) were younger and had higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores than those in the Non-IMV Group (n = 33). The short physical performance battery scores (range 0 - 12) on D1 and D7 were 6.1 ± 4.3 and 7.3 ± 3.8, respectively for the Non-Invasive Mechanical Ventilation Group, and 1.3 ± 2.5 and 2.6 ± 3.7, respectively for the IMV Group. The prevalence of intensive care unit-acquired weakness on D7 was 13% for the Non-IMV Group and 72% for the IMV Group. The maximal inspiratory pressure, maximal expiratory pressure, and handgrip strength increased on D7 in both groups, but the maximal expiratory pressure and handgrip strength were still weak. Only maximal inspiratory pressure was recovered (i.e., > 80% of the predicted value) in the Non-IMV Group. Female sex, and the need and duration of invasive mechanical were independently and negatively associated with the short physical performance battery score and handgrip strength. Conclusion: Patients who recovered from critical COVID-19 and who received invasive mechanical ventilation presented greater disability than those who were not invasively ventilated. However, they both showed marginal functional improvement during early recovery, regardless of the need for invasive mechanical ventilation. This might highlight the severity of disability caused by SARS-CoV-2.

RESUMO Objetivo: Examinar a função física e a força muscular respiratória de pacientes que se recuperaram da COVID-19 grave após a alta da unidade de terapia intensiva para a enfermaria nos Dias 1 e 7 e investigar as variáveis associadas ao comprometimento funcional. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo de coorte prospectivo de pacientes adultos com COVID-19 que necessitaram de ventilação mecânica invasiva, ventilação mecânica não invasiva ou cânula nasal de alto fluxo e tiveram alta da unidade de terapia intensiva para a enfermaria. Os participantes foram submetidos aos testes Medical Research Council sum-score, força de preensão manual, pressão inspiratória máxima, pressão expiratória máxima e short physical performance battery. Os participantes foram agrupados em dois grupos conforme a necessidade de ventilação mecânica invasiva: o Grupo Ventilação Mecânica Invasiva (Grupo VMI) e o Grupo Não Ventilação Mecânica Invasiva (Grupo Não VMI). Resultados: Os pacientes do Grupo VMI (n = 31) eram mais jovens e tinham pontuações do Sequential Organ Failure Assessment mais altas do que os do Grupo VMI (n = 33). As pontuações do short physical performance battery (intervalo de zero a 12) nos Dias 1 e 7 foram 6,1 ± 4,3 e 7,3 ± 3,8, respectivamente para o Grupo Não VMI, e 1,3 ± 2,5 e 2,6 ± 3,7, respectivamente para o Grupo VMI. A prevalência de fraqueza adquirida na unidade de terapia intensiva no Dia 7 foi de 13% para o Grupo Não VMI e de 72% para o Grupo VMI. A pressão inspiratória máxima, a pressão expiratória máxima e a força de preensão manual aumentaram no Dia 7 em ambos os grupos, porém a pressão expiratória máxima e a força de preensão manual ainda eram fracas. Apenas a pressão inspiratória máxima foi recuperada (ou seja, > 80% do valor previsto) no Grupo Não VMI. As variáveis sexo feminino, e necessidade e duração da ventilação mecânica invasiva foram associadas de forma independente e negativa à pontuação do short physical performance battery e à força de preensão manual. Conclusão: Os pacientes que se recuperaram da COVID-19 grave e receberam ventilação mecânica invasiva apresentaram maior incapacidade do que aqueles que não foram ventilados invasivamente. No entanto, os dois grupos de pacientes apresentaram melhora funcional marginal durante a fase inicial de recuperação, independentemente da necessidade de ventilação mecânica invasiva. Esse resultado pode evidenciar a gravidade da incapacidade causada pelo SARS-CoV-2.

Impacto da Capacidade Funcional Pré-operatória nos Resultados Pós-Operatórios de Cirurgia de Cardiopatia Congênita: Estudo Observacional e Prospectivo / Impact of Preoperative Functional Capacity on Postoperative Outcomes in Congenital Heart Surgery: An Observational and Prospective Study

Resumo Fundamento Apesar de avanços em técnicas cirúrgicas e cuidados pós-operatórios em cardiopatia congênita, a morbidade cardiovascular permanece elevada. Objetivo Avaliar a associação do condicionamento pré-operatório de crianças e adolescentes com cardiopatias, mensurado por teste de caminhada de 6-minutos (TC6M) e variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC), com a ocorrência de choque cardiogênico, séptico e morte no período pós-operatório. Métodos Estudo clínico prospectivo e observacional de 81 pacientes de 8 a 18 anos. No período pré-operatório foram realizados o TC6M (distância caminhada e SpO2) e a VFC. O escore de risco ajustado para cirurgia de cardiopatia congênita ( RACHS-1 ) foi aplicado para predizer o fator de risco cirúrgico para mortalidade. A ocorrência de pelo menos uma das complicações citadas foi considerada como evento combinado. Valores de p<0,05 foram considerados significantes. Resultados Dos 81 pacientes, 59% eram do sexo masculino, com idade média de 12 anos; 33% eram cianóticos; e 72% já tinham realizado cirurgias prévias. O choque cardiogênico foi a complicação mais comum, e 31% apresentaram evento combinado. Cirurgia prévia, tipo de cardiopatia atual, RACHS-1 , SpO2 em repouso, durante e após recuperação do TC6M foram selecionados para o estudo multivariado. A SpO2 após o TC6M permaneceu como fator de risco independente para aumentar a ocorrência de evento combinado no pós-operatório (OR: 0,93, IC95% [0,88 - 0,99], p=0,02). Conclusão O SpO2 após o TC6M no período pré-operatório foi o fator independente preditor de prognóstico no pós-operatório em crianças e adolescentes submetidos à correção cirúrgica; a distância caminhada e as variáveis da VFC não tiveram a mesma associação.

Abstract Background Despite advances in surgical technique and postoperative care in congenital heart disease, cardiovascular morbidity is still high. Objective To evaluate the association between preoperative cardiovascular fitness of children and adolescents, measured by the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV), and the occurrence of cardiogenic, septic shock and death in the postoperative period. Methods Prospective, observational clinic study including 81 patients aged from 8 to 18 years. In the preoperative period, the 6MWT (distance walked and SpO2) and HRV were performed. The adjusted risk score for surgeries for congenital heart disease (RACHS-1) was applied to predict the surgical risk factor for mortality. The occurrence of at least one of the listed complications was considered as a combined event. P values < 0.05 were considered as significant. Results Of the patients, 59% were male, with mean age of 12 years; 33% were cyanotic; and 72% had undergone previous cardiac surgery. Cardiogenic shock was the most common complication, and 31% had a combined event. Prior to surgery, type of current heart disease, RACHS-1, SpO2at rest, during the 6MWT and recovery were selected for the multivariate analysis. The SpO2at recovery by the 6MWT remained as an independent risk factor (OR 0.93, 95%CI [0.88 - 0.99], p=0.02) for the increasing occurrence of combined events. Conclusion SpO2after the application of the 6MWT in the preoperative period was an independent predictor of prognosis in children and adolescents undergoing surgical correction; the walked distance and the HRV did not present this association.

Prevalence of Frailty in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Valve Surgery: Comparison of Frailty Tools

Abstract Background There is no consensus among tools for assessing frailty. Objective To evaluate the prevalence of frailty according to different tools in patients referred for elective valve cardiac surgery. Methods This is a cross-sectional study. All patients were ≥ 18 years of age, clinically stable. The following patients were excluded: those unable to perform the tests because of physical, cognitive, or neurological limitations; those requiring non elective/emergency procedures or hemodynamic instability. During the preoperative cardiology visit, frailty was assessed by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), the Frailty Deficit Index (FDI), handgrip strength, and gait speed 3m. For the entire analysis, the statistical significance was set at 5%. Results Our cohort consisted of 258 subjects. From the total cohort, 201 were ≤ 70 years of age (77.9%), the predominant etiology according to rheumatic disease (50.7% vs 8.8%; p=0.000) with double mitral lesion (24.9% vs 0%; p=0.000). Frailty was present in 32.9% according SPPB, 29.1% with reduced muscular strength. and 8.9% with FDI. Handgrip strength was weaker in elderly patients (26.7 vs 23.6; p=0.051) and gait speed was lower in the younger group, in which 36% were considered frail (36% vs 14%; p=0.002). Variables associated with frailty were age ≥ 70 years, female gender, aortic stenosis, and regurgitation. Conclusion Frailty in adult patients who will have elective heart valve surgery is present even in the younger groups, although the older group with comorbidities are more frail. Frailty was more clearly shown by the SPPB than by the FDI and handgrip tests.

A propose of pulmonary dysfunction stratification after valve surgery by physiotherapeutic assistance level.

OBJECTIVE: a) to propose and implement an evaluation system; b) to classify the pulmonary involvement and determine levels of physical therapy; c) to check the progress postoperatively. METHODS: Patients underwent physiotherapy assessment preoperatively, postoperatively and after 5 days of intervention. They were classified into three levels of care: level 1 - low risk of complication; Level 2 - medium risk; Level 3 - high risk. We used analysis of variance and Kruskal-Wallis and analysis of variance for repeated measures or Friedman. Chi-square test or Fisher for proportions. We considered statistical significance level P<0.05. RESULTS: We studied 199 patients, 156 classified within level 1, 32 at level 2 and 11 at level 3. Thoracoabdominal motion and auscultation changed significantly postoperatively, persisting at levels 2 and 3 (P<0.05). Oxygenation and respiratory rate changed at levels 2 and 3 postoperatively (P<0.05) with recovery at the end. Significant decrease in lung volumes occurred in three levels (P<0.05) with partial recovery at level 1, lung collapse occurred at all levels, with recovery by 56% at level 1, 47% at level 2, 27% at level 3. CONCLUSION: The proposed assessment identified valve surgery patients who require differentiated physical therapy. Level 1 patients had rapid recovery, while the level 2 showed significant changes with functional gains at the end. Level 3 patients, more committed and prolonged recovery, should receive greater assistance.

Efeitos da supressão da aspiração endotraqueal na incidência de complicações pulmonares no pós operatório de cirurgia cardíaca / Effects of suppression of endotracheal suctioning in the incidence of pulmonary complications on the postoperative cardiac surgery

Aspiração traqueal é utilizada rotineiramente após cirurgia cardíaca para garantir adequada ventilação. OBJETIVO: Verificar se a ausência da aspiração traqueal antes da extubação em pacientes sem sinais de secreção brônquica influencia na incidência de complicações pulmonares, além de repercussões hemodinâmicas e ventilatórias do procedimento e custos. MÉTODOS: Pacientes foram avaliados entre agosto/2012 e julho/2014, divididos igualmente em Grupo ASP (aspiração traqueal prévia à extubação) e NASP (sem aspiração prévia). Foram incluídos indivíduos com: primeira cirurgia cardíaca, idade entre 18 e 75 anos, IMC ≤ 30 kg/m² e sem doença pulmonar prévia. Foram excluídos indivíduos com tempo de CEC > 120 minutos, necessidade de assistência circulatória mecânica, relação PaO2/FiO2 < 200, SpO2 < 92%, tempo de intubação > 12 horas, PAM < 60 mmHg e sinais de secreção pulmonar. Variáveis hemodinâmicas, ventilatórias, complicações pulmonares e custos hospitalares foram avaliados. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 228 pacientes (ASP= 114 NASP= 114). FC, PAS, PAD e PAM elevaram-se após aspiração e pós extubação nos grupos, retornando aos valores basais no decorrer do tempo. Não houve diferença estatística na FR e SpO2. Complicações pulmonares representaram 7,8%, sem diferença entre os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: A supressão da aspiração traqueal nos pacientes em pós-operatório imediato de cirurgia cardíaca não influenciou na incidência de complicações pulmonares e evolução clínica pós-operatória. Durante aspiração, houve alterações hemodinâmicas e respiratórias, sem repercussões clínicas, porém estas mesmas alterações ocorreram no grupo NASP após extubação, em menor intensidade. Aspiração endotraqueal sem indicação mostrou-se custosa e com desperdício de tempo dos profissionais.

Endotracheal suction is routinely used after cardiac surgery to ensure adequate ventilation. OBJECTIVE: To verify if that the absence of endotracheal suctioning before extubation in patients without signs of bronchial secretion have influence on the incidence of pulmonary complications, beyond hemodynamic and ventilatory repercussions of the procedure and costs. METHODS: Patients were evaluated between August/2012 and July/2014, divided equally into ASP Group (tracheal aspiration prior to extubation) and NASP (without prior aspiration). Individuals with: first cardiac surgery, age between 18 and 75 years, BMI ≤ 30 kg / m² and without previous lung disease were included. Individuals with ECC time > 120 minutes, need for mechanical circulatory assistance, PaO2 / FiO2 ratio <200, SpO2 <92%, intubation time> 12 hours, MBP <60 mmHg and signs of pulmonary secretion were excluded. Hemodynamic, ventilatory variables, pulmonary complications and hospital costs were assessed. RESULTS: 228 patients were analyzed (ASP = 114 NASP = 114). HR, SBP, DBP and MBP increased after aspiration and post extubation in the groups, returning to baseline values over time. There was no statistical difference in RR and SpO2. Pulmonary complications accounted for 7.8%, with no difference between groups. CONCLUSION: The suppression of tracheal suctioning in patients in the immediate postoperative period of cardiac surgery did not influence the incidence of pulmonary complications and postoperative clinical evolution. During aspiration, there were hemodynamic and respiratory changes, with no clinical repercussions, but these same changes occurred in the NASP group after extubation, to a lesser extent. Endotracheal suctioning

Infra-abdominal muscles activation brings benefits to the pulmonary function of patients with ternal instability after cardiac surgery

Abstract Objective: To compare physical therapy strategies involving abdominal muscle stabilization, with and without upper limb movement, in patients with sternal instability after heart surgery and during in-hospital care. Methods: This prospective, longitudinal, randomized, and comparative clinical study included 20 patients, which were divided into two groups: ARM, the arm group (n=10), and LEG, the leg group (n=10). The study involved the evaluation of scores of visual analog scales for sternal instability, pain, discomfort, functional impairment, lung function, and maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) before and after the interventions. Two protocols consisting of abdominal exercises in both groups with upper limb movements (ARM) and just abdominal activation with leg movements (LEG) were used for three weeks. Results: There were statistically significant (P≤0.01) improvements in pain, discomfort, and functional impairment scores, and in MIP (P=0.04) and MEP (P≤0.01) after intervention in both groups and just LEG showed improvement in forced vital capacity (P=0.043) and forced expiratory volume in one second (P=0.011). Conclusion: Both strategies promoted improvement in pain, discomfort, and functional impairment scores and in the values of inspiratory and expiratory pressures. Perhaps they were influenced by the time and resolution of the infection process, although exercises with upper limb movements seem to be safe in this population. The activation of the infra-abdominal muscles through leg movements seems to bring more benefits to lung function.

Desempenho físico e qualidade de vida de pacientes hipertensos em um programa de orientação educacional / Physical performance and quality of life of hypertense patients in an educational guidance program

INTRODUÇÃO: Intervenções educacionais, que incluem aumento no nível de atividade física e controle da hipertensão arterial, podem ser estratégias eficazes e de baixo custo. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos de um programa educacional no controle da pressão arterial (PA), desempenho físico e qualidade de vida (QV) de hipertensos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo de intervenção, controlado, não randomizado, com adultos hipertensos, ambos os gêneros, acompanhados ambulatoriamente. O programa multiprofissional constituiu-se de 12 encontros com orientações sobre DCV e mudanças no estilo de vida. Aplicou-se o teste de caminhada dos seis minutos (TC6M), questionários QV Minnesota e Internacional de Atividade Física (IPAQ) e medidas de PA. Utilizou-se os testes t-Student pareado ou de Wilcoxon e ANOVA para medidas repetidas. RESULTADOS: Participaram 20 pacientes, 82% mulheres, 62±11 anos. Houve redução da pressão arterial sistólica (147,0 vs126,0) e diastólica (85,0 vs 70,0), aumento na distância percorrida (458±83 vs 499±77 p<0,001), redução nos sintomas de fadiga (4±3 vs 2±3 p<0,001) e dispneia (4±2 vs 2±2 p<0,05) aos esforços e referência de maior nível de AF (sedentários 2 vs 0; irregularmente ativos 12 vs 5; ativos 8 vs 11; muito ativos 0 vs 4). Redução na pontuação de todos os domínios na QV foi significante: Físico (14,5±11,7 vs 8,9±9,9 p=0,004); Emocional (8,4±6,5 vs 5,3±6,6 p=0,004); Outros (9,5±8,5 vs 6,6 p<0,001); Total (32,5±25,5 vs 19,7±23,5 p<0,001). CONCLUSÃO: Programas educacionais, envolvendo aumento da atividade física, são eficazes no controle da PA, aumento no desempenho físico e melhora na QV de pacientes hipertensos.

INTRODUCTION: Educational interventions, including increased physical activity and control of hypertension, can be effective and cost-effective strategies. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of an educational program on the control of blood pressure (BP), physical performance and quality of life (QOL) of hypertensive patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Non-randomized controlled intervention study with hypertensive adults, both genders, followed up on an outpatient basis. The multiprofessional program consisted of 12 meetings with guidance on CVD and lifestyle changes. The six-minute walk test (6MWT), the QL Minnesota and International Physical Activity Questionnaires (IPAQ) and BP measurements were applied. The paired Student t test or Wilcoxon and ANOVA tests were used for repeated measures. RESULTS: Twenty patients participated, 82% women, 62 ± 11 years old. There was a reduction in systolic (147.0 vs 126.0) and diastolic (85.0 vs 70.0) blood pressure, increased distance covered (458 ± 83 vs 499 ± 77 p <0.001), reduction in symptoms of fatigue (4 ± 3 vs 2 ± 3 p <0.001) and dyspnea (4 ± 2 vs 2 ± 2 p <0.05) on exertion and reference of higher PA level (sedentary 2 vs 0; irregularly active 12 vs 5; active 8 vs 11; very active 0 vs 4). Reduction in the score of all domains in QOL was significant: Physical (14.5 ± 11.7 vs 8.9 ± 9.9 p = 0.004); Emotional (8.4 ± 6.5 vs 5.3 ± 6.6 p = 0.004); Others (9.5 ± 8.5 vs 6.6 p <0.001); Total (32.5 ± 25.5 vs 19.7 ± 23.5 p <0.001). CONCLUSION: Educational programs involving increased physical activity are effective in controlling BP, increasing physical performance and improving QoL of hypertensive patients.

Study of breathing pattern and thoracoabdominal movement in mitral valve disease.

BACKGROUND: patients with mitral valve disease can progress to having pulmonary congestion, which increases the work the respiratory muscles. This overload can change the breathing pattern with a predominance of rib cage displacement or presence of paradoxical movements. OBJECTIVE: a) to study the breathing pattern and thoracoabdominal movement of patients with mitral valve disease; b) to study the effect of body position on breathing parameters; and c) to correlate pulmonary hypertension with lack of coordination of thoracoabdominal movement. METHODS: the breathing pattern and thoracoabdominal movement of patients with mitral valve disease were assessed using respiratory inductive plethysmography during quiet breathing in the dorsal decubitus and sitting positions for two minutes. The variables assessed were tidal volume, breathing time and thoracoabdominal movement. RESULTS: of the 65 patients selected, 10 were excluded, 29 were in the mitral stenosis group and 26 in the mitral regurgitation group. Tidal volume, pulmonary ventilation and mean inspiratory flow significantly increased in the sitting position, with no difference between the groups. The thoracoabdominal movement remained coordinated in all groups and positions; except for five patients in the dorsal decubitus position, who lacked coordination (three in the mitral stenosis group; two in the mitral regurgitation group). A significant correlation with pulmonary artery pressure values was observed (r = 0.992; p = 0.007). CONCLUSION: No difference in breathing pattern or thoracoabdominal movement was found between patients with mitral stenosis and regurgitation. The sitting position increased tidal volume without altering breathing times. The lack of coordination of the thoracoabdominal movement in the dorsal decubitus position was associated with pulmonary hypertension.

Alveolar recruitment maneuver in refractory hypoxemia and lobar atelectasis after cardiac surgery: a case report.

OBJECTIVE: This case report describes an unusual presentation of right upper lobe atelectasis associated with refractory hypoxemia to conventional alveolar recruitment maneuvers in a patient soon after coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. METHOD: Case-report. RESULTS: The alveolar recruitment with PEEP = 40 cm H2O improved the patient's atelectasis and hypoxemia. CONCLUSION: In the present report, the unusual alveolar recruitment maneuver with PEEP 40 cm H2O showed to be safe and efficient to reverse refractory hypoxemia and uncommon atelectasis in a patient after cardiac surgery.

Fisioterapia no paciente transplantado cardíaco com histoplasmose recente / Physical therapy in cardiac transplanted patient with recent histoplasmosis

A histoplasmose é uma infecção sistêmica causada por um fungo dimórfico, comumente encontrado em solo contaminado por fezes de aves e morcegos. Em indivíduos imunocompetentes, cerca de 95% das infecções são assintomáticas, mas ocasionalmente a inalação de conídios pode causar manifestações pulmonares agudas ou crônicas. Indivíduos transplantados estão suscetíveis às infecções, mesmo no seguimento tardio do pós-operatório. Essas infecções, em pacientes imunossuprimidos, podem ser de difícil diagnóstico com quadros clínicos atípicos e alto risco de complicações. É relatado um caso de histoplasmose pulmonar em um jovem de 15 anos, transplantado há seis anos, que evoluiu para sepse, insufi ciência renal e respiratória, com consequente imobilismo e redução da capacidade funcional. O tratamento clínico e a intervenção fisioterapêutica, por meio de aplicação de ventilação não invasiva e programa de treinamento físico com cargas progressivas, resultaram em reversão da insuficiência respiratória e restabelecimento da capacidade funcional, respectivamente, com alta hospitalar após 57 dias de internação

Histoplasmosis is a systemic infection caused by a dimorphic fungus commonly found in the ground contaminated by feces from birds and bats. In immunocompetent individuals, about 95% of infections are asymptomatic, but occasionally the inhalation of conidia can cause acute or chronic pulmonary manifestations. Transplanted individuals are susceptible to infections even at late postoperative follow-up. These infections, in patients immunosuppressed, may be difficult to diagnose with atypical clinical high risk of complications. One case of pulmonary histoplasmosis is reported in a 15-year-old man, transplanted six years ago, who progressed to sepsis, renal and respiratory failure, resulting in immobility and reduced functional capacity. Clinical treatment and physical therapy intervention, through the application of noninvasive ventilation and physical training program with progressive loads, resulted in reversion of respiratory failure and restoration of functional capacity, then hospital discharge after 57 days of hospitalization

PEEP-ZEEP technique: cardiorespiratory repercussions in mechanically ventilated patients submitted to a coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

BACKGROUND: The PEEP-ZEEP technique is previously described as a lung inflation through a positive pressure enhancement at the end of expiration (PEEP), followed by rapid lung deflation with an abrupt reduction in the PEEP to 0 cmH2O (ZEEP), associated to a manual bilateral thoracic compression. AIM: To analyze PEEP-ZEEP technique's repercussions on the cardio-respiratory system in immediate postoperative artery graft bypass patients. METHODS: 15 patients submitted to a coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) were enrolled prospectively, before, 10 minutes and 30 minutes after the technique. Patients were curarized, intubated, and mechanically ventilated. To perform PEEP-ZEEP technique, saline solution was instilled into their orotracheal tube than the patient was reconnected to the ventilator. Afterwards, the PEEP was increased to 15 cmH2O throughout 5 ventilatory cycles and than the PEEP was rapidly reduced to 0 cmH2O along with manual bilateral thoracic compression. At the end of the procedure, tracheal suction was accomplished. RESULTS: The inspiratory peak and plateau pressures increased during the procedure (p < 0.001) compared with other pressures during the assessment periods; however, they were within lung safe limits. The expiratory flow before the procedure were 33 ± 7.87 L/min, increasing significantly during the procedure to 60 ± 6.54 L/min (p < 0.001), diminishing to 35 ± 8.17 L/min at 10 minutes and to 36 ± 8.48 L/min at 30 minutes. Hemodynamic and oxygenation variables were not altered. CONCLUSION: The PEEP-ZEEP technique seems to be safe, without alterations on hemodynamic variables, produces elevated expiratory flow and seems to be an alternative technique for the removal of bronchial secretions in patients submitted to a CABG.

Effects of massage therapy on sleep quality after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Having poor sleep quality is common among patients following cardiopulmonary artery bypass graft surgery. Pain, stress, anxiety and poor sleep quality may be improved by massage therapy. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated whether massage therapy is an effective technique for improving sleep quality in patients following cardiopulmonary artery bypass graft surgery. METHOD: Participants included cardiopulmonary artery bypass graft surgery patients who were randomized into a control group and a massage therapy group following discharge from the intensive care unit (Day 0), during the postoperative period. The control group and the massage therapy group comprised participants who were subjected to three nights without massage and three nights with massage therapy, respectively. The patients were evaluated on the following mornings (i.e., Day 1 to Day 3) using a visual analogue scale for pain in the chest, back and shoulders, in addition to fatigue and sleep. Participants kept a sleep diary during the study period. RESULTS: Fifty-seven cardiopulmonary artery bypass graft surgery patients were enrolled in the study during the preoperative period, 17 of whom were excluded due to postoperative complications. The remaining 40 participants (male: 67.5%, age: 61.9 years ± 8.9 years, body mass index: 27.2 kg/m² ± 3.7 kg/m²) were randomized into control (n = 20) and massage therapy (n = 20) groups. Pain in the chest, shoulders, and back decreased significantly in both groups from Day 1 to Day 3. The participants in the massage therapy group had fewer complaints of fatigue on Day 1 (p=0.006) and Day 2 (p=0.028) in addition, they reported a more effective sleep during all three days (p=0.019) when compared with the participants in the control group. CONCLUSION: Massage therapy is an effective technique for improving patient recovery from cardiopulmonary artery bypass graft surgery because it reduces fatigue and improves sleep.