Nafi’ Ika Salsabella; Taufik Eko Susilo; Ririt Ika Lestari
Pulmonary contusion is a common complication of blunt chest trauma that leads to parenchymal damage, edema, and bleeding, resulting in impaired respiratory function. Thoracotomy procedures to manage rib fractures are often accompanied by complaints of chest pain and dyspnea. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of physiotherapy interventions, specifically breathing exercises and early mobilization, in reducing pain and shortness of breath in a patient diagnosed with pulmonary contusion post-thoracotomy. A case report method was employed with six sessions of breathing exercises and assisted active mobilization over a seven-day period. Assessment was conducted using pain scores, Borg dyspnea scale, and thoracic expansion measurements. Results indicated a reduction in pain and dyspnea scores as well as improved thoracic expansion in the fracture area. Physiotherapy interventions were shown to be effective in promoting respiratory recovery and reducing postoperative complications.