Monitoring Breathing and Activity After Abdominal Surgery in Adults at High Risk for Lung Complications

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying adults who are undergoing elective abdominal surgery and have a moderate to high risk of developing lung problems after surgery. The purpose is to understand how different breathing patterns and physical activities after surgery affect recovery and reduce complications like hypoventilation and other pulmonary issues. This observational study focuses on monitoring these factors to improve care for patients at risk of postoperative pulmonary complications. Participants will have two types of monitoring devices placed on their chest and thigh shortly after surgery in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit. The ExSpiron device records breathing patterns including breath volume and frequency, while the ActivPAL accelerometer tracks body position and movements like sitting and walking. These devices stay on for up to three days or until the patient can walk 30 meters independently or is discharged from the hospital, whichever happens first. During the study, participants are observed continuously with these monitors to collect data on their breathing and physical activity levels. Researchers will analyze this information along with medications and clinical events to identify links between activity and breathing quality. The study measures outcomes such as hypoventilation during the first three postoperative days and other pulmonary complications through day seven. Participants activity and breathing data will help inform recommendations for improving postoperative recovery and reducing lung complications after abdominal surgery.

Postoperative Respiratory and Activity Monitoring