Bedside evaluation of the respiratory function in abdominal surgery with a simplified instrument a controlled study.

Abstract

Though total prevention of postoperative pulmonary abnormalities after upper abdominal surgery does not seem to be possible, appropriate application of treatment to restore VC and FRC. The pulmonary function test helps the physician to predict postoperative respiratory disorders. Nevertheless, by using a simple respirometer and mini Wright's peak flow meter to evaluate the pulmonary functions perioperatively, it shows close relationship to the conventional test. Both FRC and SVC decreased to approximately 50-55 per cent of the preoperative values one day after surgery and yet, they increased significantly to 70-75 per cent of the preoperative levels on the fifth postoperative day. It is evident from this study that this simple test can serve as a reliable screen of pulmonary function. It can be performed economically and does not require complex equipment.