Abstract

Clinical Case. An exclusively tailored exercise program which included chest physiotherapy and graded mobilization was given to a 34-year-old patient after bi-lobectomy for seven days as a part of an in-patient rehabilitation program. The cardiovascular and respiratory response, rate of perceived exertion and six-minute walk distance were recorded before and after the intervention. Range of motion and postural correction were also given equal attention. Descriptive statistics used in order to present the data.

Discussion. A pulmonary rehabilitation protocol after surgical interventions in bronchiectasis patients is beneficial, however, the short-term effects are not well documented. Bi-lobectomy being the less common resections performed, requires a structured rehabilitation protocol in order to overcome the complications faced in the post-surgical recovery period.

Summary. The number of bronchiectasis cases are increasing rapidly, with surgical repairs gaining priority and importance as management of this condition. Pulmonary rehabilitation is encouraged in order to maximise the benefits of the surgeries by reducing the post-operative complication. Pulmonary rehabilitation protocols structured for each individual depending on their difficulties will help in reducing complications, dependency and duration of the hospital stay.

Key words:

bronchiectasis, bi-lobectomy, pulmonary rehabilitation