Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM: Bilevel positive airway pressure (BIPAP) is emerging as a useful modality in prevention as well as the management of postoperative respiratory dysfunction in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 50 patients who underwent CABG were managed using BIPAP during postoperative period. Acid-base gas parameters, electrolyte levels, respiratory and hemodynamic parameters, and 24 h urine output before and after BIPAP application were measured. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0 version. Paired "t"-test was used to compare the changes in different parameters. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 57.72 ± 9.67 years (range: 36-85 years), majority were males (84%). Mean body mass index and mean left ventricular ejection fraction of patients were 24.26 ± 3.74 kg.m (-2) and 52.77 ± 10.26%, respectively. Mean pO(2), pCO(2,) and respiratory rate before BIPAP application were 90.62 ± 12.90 torr, 40.26 ± 5.39 torr, and 25.64 ± 6.21/min, respectively, which became 158.52 ± 50.43 torr, 37.77 ± 6.98 torr, and 21.78 ± 4.79/min, respectively, after BIPAP application, thus showing a significant change (P < 0.05). No significant change in other parameters was observed. No other adverse effect was noted. CONCLUSION: BIPAP application helped in improving ventilatory parameters without any adverse impact on hemodynamics and other parameters. Its application was a safe method to prevent respiratory disturbances following cardiac surgery.