Effects of a Respiratory Physiotherapeutic Program in Liver Transplantation Candidates

Background

Candidates for liver transplantation may have malnutrition, fatigue, loss of muscle mass and function. The combination of these factors leads to overall physical disability and physical inactivity.

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of a respiratory physiotherapeutic program on liver transplantation candidates.

Method

Forty-two patients were evaluated by respiratory muscle strength, surface electromyography of the rectus abdominis and diaphragm, and spirometry. We also applied the SF-36. The patients were divided into two groups: 12 randomly assigned to the control group and 5 in the intervention group. The intervention consisted of an explanatory and illustrative manual to be followed at home with diaphragmatic breathing exercises, diaphragmatic isometric exercise, Threshold IMT, lifting the upper limbs with a bat, and strengthening the abdominals.

Results

Significant difference was found between initial forced expiratory flow (FEF)_25–75% (P = .042) and final FEF_25–75 in the intervention group. The control group had significant difference (P = .036) in the diaphragm RMS between initial time and end time. In conclusion, the control group showed greater electrical activity of the diaphragm after 3 months.

Conclusion

The intervention group benefited from the exercise, thus improving the FEF_25–75%.