Heart with lung wings, representing improved breathing after heart surgery.

Breathe Easier After Heart Surgery: How Inspiratory Muscle Training Can Help

Lena Voss in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Unlock the secrets to a smoother recovery after CABG surgery with inspiratory muscle training. Learn how this technique can improve your lung function and overall well-being."

Undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery is a major step towards improving your heart health. However, like any significant surgery, it comes with its own set of challenges. Postoperative pulmonary complications, which affect your lungs and breathing, are among the most common concerns. These complications can prolong your recovery, increase hospital stay, and impact your overall well-being.

Pulmonary issues following heart surgery are often complex, stemming from various factors. These include the effects of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), the mechanical impact of sternotomy (cutting the breastbone), surgical manipulation, anesthesia, and even the use of the mammary artery during the procedure. Immobility, pain, and temporary diaphragm dysfunction can further contribute to breathing difficulties and reduced lung function.

Fortunately, there are strategies to mitigate these risks and promote a smoother recovery. Respiratory therapy plays a crucial role, both before and after surgery, in optimizing lung function and preventing complications. Among these techniques, inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has emerged as a promising approach to improve breathing and lung capacity after CABG surgery.

What is Inspiratory Muscle Training and Why is it Important After CABG?

Heart with lung wings, representing improved breathing after heart surgery.

Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is a targeted exercise program designed to strengthen the muscles you use to breathe in. Think of it like weightlifting, but for your diaphragm and other respiratory muscles. By improving the strength and endurance of these muscles, IMT can enhance your ability to take deep breaths, cough effectively, and clear your lungs.

After CABG surgery, several factors can weaken your respiratory muscles, leading to reduced lung function. This can manifest as:

Shallow breathing
Reduced lung capacity (the amount of air your lungs can hold)
Increased risk of atelectasis (collapsed lung)
Increased susceptibility to pneumonia

By addressing these issues, IMT offers a proactive approach to improve respiratory muscle function and overall pulmonary health following cardiac surgery. Research indicates that it can be an effective tool to regain lost lung capacity and facilitate a quicker, more comfortable return to normal activities.

The Takeaway

Inspiratory muscle training offers a valuable strategy for improving lung function and overall recovery after CABG surgery. By strengthening respiratory muscles, IMT can help patients breathe easier, increase lung capacity, and reduce the risk of postoperative pulmonary complications. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist to see if IMT is right for you.

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Everything You Need To Know

How does Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) specifically aid recovery after CABG surgery, and what aspects of post-operative care does it not address?

Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) is a specialized exercise regimen focused on strengthening the muscles used during inhalation, particularly the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles. This training is crucial post-CABG because the surgery and associated factors like cardiopulmonary bypass, sternotomy, and anesthesia can weaken these muscles. By improving the strength and endurance of respiratory muscles, IMT enhances the ability to take deep breaths, cough effectively, and clear the lungs, mitigating risks like atelectasis and pneumonia. While IMT focuses on strengthening the inspiratory muscles, it does not directly address issues like pain management or incision care, which are also vital aspects of post-operative recovery.

What are the primary reasons for decreased lung function after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) surgery?

Following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) surgery, multiple factors can contribute to reduced lung function. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) used during surgery, the mechanical impact of sternotomy (cutting the breastbone), surgical manipulation, anesthesia, and even the use of the mammary artery can all negatively affect respiratory function. Additionally, immobility, pain, and temporary diaphragm dysfunction further exacerbate breathing difficulties and reduce lung capacity. These factors can lead to shallow breathing, increased risk of lung collapse (atelectasis), and susceptibility to pneumonia.

Besides Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT), what other respiratory therapy techniques might be used to improve lung function after heart surgery?

Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) primarily strengthens the diaphragm and other inspiratory muscles. However, other respiratory therapy techniques may include exercises targeting expiratory muscles, chest wall mobility exercises, and breathing retraining techniques to optimize breathing patterns. Additionally, effective coughing techniques and strategies for managing pain are often integrated into a comprehensive respiratory therapy program. While IMT helps with lung function, other therapies are needed to treat other complications.

What are the potential benefits of Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) following CABG surgery, and how might its effectiveness vary?

Research suggests that Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) can lead to improved lung capacity, reduced risk of pulmonary complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia, and a quicker return to normal activities. By strengthening the respiratory muscles, IMT can also improve overall quality of life by making breathing easier and more efficient. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of IMT can vary depending on individual factors and adherence to the training program. While some experience significant improvement, others experience mild improvement. While IMT can improve outcomes, it is not a substitute for medication.

Are there any risks associated with Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT), and how can these risks be minimized?

While Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) is generally safe, potential risks include muscle fatigue, discomfort, or, in rare cases, hyperventilation. It's crucial to start IMT under the guidance of a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or respiratory therapist, who can tailor the program to your specific needs and monitor your progress. They can also teach proper techniques to minimize risks and maximize benefits. Those with pre-existing lung conditions should seek expert advise. The intensity should be monitored and adjusted based on individual tolerance and response.