OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of LET on pulmonary volumes, respiratory muscle activation and PPC incidence after major elective upper abdominal surgery. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial enrolled 137 patients, who were randomly assigned into 4 groups: control (CG; n = 35), flow incentive spirometry (FIS; n = 33), deep breathing (DB; n = 35) and volume incentive spirometry (VIS; n = 34). Each intervention was performed 3 times per day during 5 days. Subsequently, PPC (pneumonia, atelectasis or severe hypoxemia) were analyzed by a blinded assessor until hospital discharge. Lung volumes (optoelectronic plethysmography) and inspiratory muscular activation (surface electromyography) were assessed before and 3 days after surgery. Statistical analysis was performed considering the intention to treat analysis. RESULTS: Before surgery, all groups were homogenous for age, gender, BMI, lung function and thoracoabdominal mechanics. After surgery, no difference was observed in the lung volumes and inspiratory muscular activation during the lung expansion technique (p > 0.05). The PPC incidence was higher in the DB group (p < 0.05). Higher ASA scores and surgery duration were the only predictors of PPC (n = 14, 11.2%). CONCLUSION: LET do not modify the changes on thoracoabdominal mechanics or prevent PPC after abdominal surgery. The indiscriminate use of LET should not be routinely prescribed to prevent PPC; however, more studies are required to confirm our results and to change the standard practice. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: URL www.ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01993602.

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