Scholarly Article
Effect of Stacked Breathing Exercises on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in Abdominal Surgery Patients - A Pilot Study
Kabir , Ghai, Pranali, Gaikwad, Abhijit, Diwate
2025-12-31 · VIMS JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL THERAPY · DVVPF's, College of Physiotherapy
Abstract
Background: Breath stacking is a technique in which multiple consecutive inspirations are taken before expiration, allowing increased lung expansion and improved secretion clearance. This method enhances oxygenation, increases inspiratory tidal volume, strengthens cough, and reduces postoperative pulmonary complications. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effect of stacked breathing exercises on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) in patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Methodology: Ten participants who met the inclusion criteria were recruited and PEFR was recorded before initiating stacked breathing exercises. The intervention was administered twice daily for the first three postoperative days, and PEFR was reassessed on postoperative Day 3. Results: The mean PEFR increased from 90.00 ± 27.48 L/min on Day 1 to 111.00 ± 31.43 L/min on Day 3, representing a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: These findings suggest that stacked breathing exercises positively influence expiratory flow in postoperative abdominal surgery patients.
Keywords
Breath Stacking, Abdominal Surgery, Peak Expiratory Flow Rate, Pulmonary Ventilation, Respiratory Physiotherapy, Postoperative Complications
Citation Details
VIMS JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL THERAPY, pp. 36-40