[Influence of different body positions in vital capacity in patients on postoperative upper abdominal].

RATIONALE The changes in body position can cause changes in lung function, it is necessary to understand them, especially in the postoperative upper abdominal surgery, since these patients are susceptible to postoperative pulmonary complications. OBJECTIVE To assess the vital capacity in the supine position (head at 0° and 45°), sitting and standing positions in patients in the postoperative upper abdominal surgery. METHODS A cross-sectional study conducted between August 2008 and January 2009 in a hospital in Salvador/BA. The instrument used to measure vital capacity (VC) was analogic spirometer, the choice of the sequence of positions followed a random order obtained from the draw of the four positions. Secondary data were collected from the medical records of each patient. RESULTS The sample consisted of 30 subjects with a mean age of 45.2±11.2 years, BMI 20.2±1.0 kg/m(2). The position on orthostasis showed higher values of CV regarding standing (mean change: 0.15±0.03 liters; p=0.001), the supine to 45 (average difference: 0.32±0.04 liters; p=0.001) and 0° (0.50±0.05 liters; p=0.001). There was a positive trend between the values of FVC supine to upright posture (1.68±0.47; 1.86±0.48; 2.02±0.48 and 2.18±0.52 liters; respectively). CONCLUSION Body position affects the values of CV in patients in the postoperative upper abdominal surgery, increasing in postures where the chest is vertical.