Sustained maximal inspiration (incentive spirometry) is used for the p
revention and management of atelectasis in major abdominal and thoraci
c surgery. Patients with head and neck surgery are predisposed to post
operative disturbances in lung function after extensive surgical resec
tion, immobilization, or significant chest wall deformity from various
reconstructive procedures. The patient often requires tracheostomy or
permanent laryngeal stoma. A prospective clinical study on patients w
ith major head and neck surgery was conducted to evaluate the use of i
ncentive spirometry to improve postoperative lung function. An adaptor
was first designed to allow patients with tracheostomy tubes to use t
he spirometers. Parameters studied include vital signs, arterial blood
gases (A-a gradient), and pulmonary function test. Significant improv
ement of lung function and lack of complication warrant the use of inc
entive spirometry in postoperative head and neck surgery patients.