Effect of OPEP on lung recruitment and gas distribution in post-surgery patients: A pilot study

Oscillatory positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) devices are airway clearance tools generating positive pressure, yet evidence supporting their efficacy post-surgery for lung recruitment and gas distribution is limited. Investigate OPEP's impact on lung recruitment and gas distribution using Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) in post-surgery patients. 26 ICU-extubated patients post-major surgery used OPEP at five levels with EIT monitoring. Primary outcome: change in end-expiratory lung impedance (ΔEELI) post-OPEP; secondary outcomes: global inhomogeneity index (GI), respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and heart rate. Significant ΔEELI increase during OPEP versus baseline, correlating with OPEP level. ROI3 (mid-dorsal lung) exhibited highest ΔEELI. Oxygen saturation improved post-OPEP. OPEP effectively increased end-expiratory lung volume post-major surgery, notably in mid-dorsal regions, enhancing short-term oxygenation. • OPEP Enhances Post-Surgical Lung Function : OPEP improves end-expiratory lung volume, reducing atelectasis risk. • Improved Oxygenation and Safety : OPEP enhanced oxygen saturation, and is well-tolerated by patients. • Broader Clinical Implications : OPEP's potential as a post-op lung care addition, necessitating long-term research. • Strategic Use of EIT for Resistance Level Adjustment: EIT used as a tool for individualized OPEP resistance level settings.