Influence of Early Ambulation in Postoperative Hospitalization Following Cardiac Surgery

Heart disease has one of the highest mortality rates in the world. According to DATASUS1, in January 2014 Brazil reported a mortality rate of 10.20% related to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and heart failure (HF) on an emergency basis. From January to June 2008, 10,652 coronary artery bypass grafting and/or valve replacement surgeries were held in Brazil1. Despite the technological advances aimed to extend the quality of life of patients undergoing cardiac surgery, such a highly complex procedure favors the emergence of peripheral and lung function changes2. Among the most common respiratory complications are atelectasis, pneumonia, pleural effusion, pulmonary edema, pulmonary embolism, phrenic nerve injury, pneumothorax, acute respiratory failure and prolonged mechanical ventilation3. Some factors can influence the onset of pulmonary disorders, such as prior pulmonary disease, presence of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), general anesthesia, pleural drains, and duration of mechanical ventilation2,3.