ABSTRACT
Purpose: Bronchopleural fistula is a commonest complication developed in post-traumatic cases and the management of which is still a challenge due to lack of scientific evidence. The purpose of this case report is to investigate the effects of physiotherapy treatment in management of patients with bronchopleural fistula. Case Description: A 20-year-old man met with a road traffic accident following which he was diagnosed with hemopneumothorax and ICD was placed. Continuous removal of ICD over 3 to 4 times by patient himself in unconscious state lead to the development of bronchopleural fistula. Results: The patient was seen for 15 sessions over 3 weeks period ( 5 days per week). At discharge, his Functional status score in ICU (FSS-ICU) was 35. He was able to complete exercise tolerance test in 6-minute time interval with 540 meters of distance involving 10 laps with single rest pause during 4th minute. Discussion: Though bronchopleural fistula is considered as a relative complication of physical therapy; this case report suggests that with appropriate care physical therapy along with other medical management team can help to cure it and improve patient’s functional status as well as his quality of living.