Postoperative recovery in patients undergoing exploratory laparotomy for abdominal trauma: An integrative review

Abstract

Introduction: Exploratory laparotomy remains one of the main surgical approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of abdominal trauma injuries, especially in patients with hemodynamic instability or suspected severe intra-abdominal lesions. Despite its importance in reducing mortality, the procedure is associated with respiratory impairments, functional limitations, and postoperative complications that may compromise clinical recovery. In this context, physical therapy plays a fundamental role in preventing complications, restoring respiratory function, and improving functional capacity, requiring integrated action with the medical team and other healthcare professionals. Objective: To address postoperative recovery in patients undergoing exploratory laparotomy for abdominal trauma, emphasizing the respiratory and functional repercussions associated with the surgical procedure and the role of physical therapy within a multidisciplinary approach aimed at preventing complications and optimizing clinical outcomes. Methods: This study consists of a descriptive and analytical literature review conducted through an integrative review methodology. The databases used were the Virtual Health Library (VHL), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), National Library of Medicine (PubMed), SciVerse Scopus (Scopus), and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO). Thirteen studies published between 2008 and 2025 were included, selected based on their relevance to postoperative recovery following exploratory laparotomy for abdominal trauma, encompassing aspects related to respiratory function, functional capacity, early mobilization, respiratory physical therapy, and rehabilitation strategies. Results: The analyzed evidence indicates that patients undergoing exploratory laparotomy experience reduced ventilatory capacity, functional limitations, increased risk of pulmonary complications, and prolonged recovery time, particularly during the immediate postoperative period. Alterations such as decreased lung volumes, impaired ventilatory mechanics, and reduced functional independence were frequently reported. Physical therapy interventions, including respiratory therapy, therapeutic exercises, and early mobilization, demonstrated positive effects on pulmonary ventilation, prevention of respiratory complications, recovery of functional capacity, and reduction in hospital length of stay. The integration of surgical care, physical therapy, and multidisciplinary assistance proved essential for optimizing recovery and improving clinical outcomes. Conclusion: Postoperative recovery following exploratory laparotomy for abdominal trauma requires an integrated interdisciplinary approach involving physical therapy and medicine. Early and structured physical therapy interventions significantly contribute to preserving respiratory function, restoring functional capacity, preventing postoperative complications, and optimizing clinical outcomes, establishing physical therapy as an essential component of patient care in this population.