Evaluation of Inspiratory Muscle Strength Early After Coronary Artery Bypass

The program consisted of bronchial hygiene characterized by detachment and removal of secretions and respiratory exercises which were applied in the respiratory muscles in order to strengthen and increase the resistance. Patients were instructed to maintain diaphragmatic breathing, at a rate of 12 to 18 breaths per minute during EPAP mask use, and the expiratory pressure was increased progressively in the following fashion: 3-8 cm H2O during 3-12 minutes. Also, they performed flexion/extension of hip and knee, active free exercises for upper limbs, ambulation exercise and ascent/descend of stairs