Presently , the evidence does not support the use of IS for decreasing the incidence of PPCs following cardiac or upper abdominal surgery
OBJECTIVE To systematic ally review the evidence examining the use of incentive spirometry ( IS ) for the prevention of  postoperative pulmonary complications ( PPCs ) .
Comparison of continuous positive airway pressure, incentive spirometry, and conservative therapy after cardiac operations
Of 38 patients undergoing median sternotomy for cardiac operations all developed profound restrictive defects in pulmonary function during the first 72 h after tracheal extubation . Although decreased lung volumes were refractory to correction by vigorous , aggressive pulmonary therapy during this period , frequent and supervised treatment may prevent further deterioration in pulmonary function . The overall incidence of pneumonia was only 3 % ( 1/38 ) . Continuous positive airway pressure delivered by mask proved to be a nearly effortless form of postoperative respiratory therapy that was less painful than incentive spirometry or coughing and deep breathing , and therefore may be preferable
Presently , the evidence does not support the use of IS for decreasing the incidence of PPCs following cardiac or upper abdominal surgery
OBJECTIVE To systematic ally review the evidence examining the use of incentive spirometry ( IS ) for the prevention of  postoperative pulmonary complications ( PPCs ) .