Effects of Abdominoplasty on Intra-Abdominal Pressure and Pulmonary Function.

Background: Abdominal wall weakness is a consequence of rectus abdominis diastasis and flaccidity of the myofascial component. A degree of plicature of the rectus abdominis generates an increase of intra-abdominal pressure (IAP), which may result in an increase of intrathoracic pressure, thus affecting thoracic hemodynamics and leading to inadequate ventilation.

Objectives: To assess changes generated by plicature of the rectus abdominis on IAP and pulmonary function in patients undergoing abdominoplasty.