Battle for Breath: A Comparative Analysis of Mechanical Chest Vibration vs Positive Expiratory Pressure Therapy Combined with Deep Breathing Exercises in COPD Patients with Atelectasis

IntroductIonAtelectasis is a clinically significant condition in which a portion of the lung loses volume owing to the deflation or collapse of alveoli, with resultant impairment of gas exchange. 1 The condition may range from limited subsegmental involvement to complete lobar or whole-lung collapse and is encountered most frequently in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), gastric carcinoma, sepsis, and in those recovering from abdominal or cardiothoracic surgery. [2][3]3][4] Functionally, atelectasis reduces lung compliance, impairs oxygenation, elevates pulmonary vascular resistance, and, in surgical patients, may substantially delay postoperative recovery. 2,4,5he general prevalence of atelectasis in high-risk populations has been reported at approximately 37.84%, with the highest incidence observed in the lower lung zones.Age is an important predictor, with a prevalence ratio of approximately 30% in individuals younger than 36 years and 45% in those older than 36 years. 6Common clinical manifestations include dyspnea, 1,