THE IMPORTANCE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY IN THE FUNCTIONAL RECOVERY OF PATIENTS IN THE POSTOPERATIVE PERIOD OF CARDIAC SURGERY

Abstract

Cardiac surgeries are complex procedures that require multidisciplinary care during the postoperative period in order to reduce complications and accelerate recovery. In this context, physiotherapy plays a central role, acting both in respiratory and motor rehabilitation with the purpose of restoring functional capacity and improving patients’ quality of life. Considering the relevance of the topic, it is necessary to analyze scientific evidence that demonstrates the benefits of physiotherapeutic intervention after cardiac surgeries. This study aims to evaluate, through a literature review, the importance of physiotherapy in the functional recovery of patients undergoing different types of cardiac surgeries, including myocardial revascularization, transplantation, valve replacement, and correction of congenital malformations. The methodology consisted of an integrative literature review, based on the analysis of 73 articles initially found in national and international databases. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 11 articles published between 2020 and 2025 were selected to compose the results framework, covering studies that evaluated physiotherapeutic intervention in different clinical contexts and age groups. The results indicated consensus regarding the effectiveness of physiotherapeutic interventions in the cardiac postoperative period. Benefits highlighted included reduction in hospital stay length, prevention and management of respiratory complications, increased mobility, accelerated functional recovery, and faster return to daily living activities. Furthermore, studies emphasized the importance of preoperative physiotherapy, capable of improving physical conditioning and reducing postoperative risks, as well as the need for standardized protocols and specific research in pediatric and elderly populations. It is concluded that physiotherapy is fundamental in the rehabilitation of patients undergoing cardiac surgeries and should be recognized as an indispensable part of the multidisciplinary team. Its practice significantly contributes to comprehensive care, clinical safety, and improvement in patients’ quality of life, reinforcing the need to expand research and evidence-based practices in the area.