Buteyko Breathing Technique Versus Incentive Spirometer on Breath Holding Time after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

Background: Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is still associated with frequent development of postoperative pulmonary complications, which are particularly concerning given its link to increased patient morbidity and mortality and resource utilization. Aim of the Work: The aim of this study was to compare between the effects of two inpatient respiratory retraining techniques post coronary artery bypass graft. Subjects and Methodology: Forty-five patients of both sexes (22 women and 23 men) who underwent coronary artery bypass graft were enrolled in that study for five days while in inpatient period. Their age ranged from 45-55 years. They were assigned into three groups with equal numbers (control group, Buteyko breathing technique group and incentive spirometer group). Breath holding time (control pause) was measured for the three groups at the beginning of the study (1st day postoperative) and after the end of training (5th day postoperative). Results: There was significant improvement in Breath holding time (control pause). (p 0.05) for three groups. Significant difference was noted between three groups post-operatively, in favor of incentive spirometer group. Conclusion: Both Buteyko breathing technique and incentive spirometer induce significant improvement in Breath holding time (control pause) after coronary artery bypass graft surgery, in favor of incentive spirometer.