Maristela Rodrigues Zavariz

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Respiratory function is often compromised in patients undergoing thoracic surgery for cancer, increasing the risk of pulmonary complications and hindering functional recovery. The aim of this narrative review was to gather and discuss the main evidence on respiratory physiotherapy interventions applied to oncologic patients undergoing lung resections, focusing on effective strategies and clinical outcomes.

Content: Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and SciELO were consulted, prioritizing articles published between 2015 and 2025. The review highlights interventions at three stages: prehabilitation, perioperative management, and postoperative rehabilitation. Prehabilitation programs including inspiratory muscle training, breathing exercises, and functional strengthening reduce postoperative pulmonary complications. Early physiotherapy in the hospital prevents atelectasis and pneumonia, while outpatient rehabilitation improves ventilatory capacity, muscle strength, and quality of life. Multidisciplinary care enhances adherence and functional outcomes.

Conclusion: Integrating structured respiratory physiotherapy interventions throughout the surgical process optimizes respiratory performance and functional recovery in oncologic patients.

Keywords: oncologic physiotherapy; prehabilitation; rehabilitation; thoracic surgery; lung neoplasms