INFLUENCE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY ON RECOVERY IN A PATIENT WITH RECTUS ABDOMINIS MUSCLE ENDOMETRIOSIS IN THE LATE POSTOPERATIVE PERIOD (CLINICAL CASE)

Introduction: Endometriosis is а gynecological disease, although sometimes it affects the abdominal wall (AWE). This is a rare form of extra-pelvic endometriosis that attaches to a surgical incision, such as a cesarean section. The aim of the study was to follow the effect of late postoperative physiotherapy on recovery in a 34-year-old female patient with endometriosis of the rectus abdominis muscle as a result of a C-section scar. Methods: To assess the effect of the applied physiotherapy program, we used a curl–up test, the SF-36 Quality of Life (QoL) assessment, and the Post-discharge Surgical Recovery (PSR) scale on the first home day after the hospital stay and at the end of the 3rd month. Physiotherapy methods: We instructed the patient to perform abdominal, pelvic, and back exercises that improve posture. Abdominal massage and beauty ergon were applied to the postoperative scar to prevent adhesions. Walking time and distance were increased each week. At the end of the third month of the physiotherapy program, folk dance movements were also included, as the patient was a dancer. Results: The results of the study showed a good recovery 3 months after discharge from the hospital. The patient had good abdominal muscle function, no postoperative pain, and an overall improved quality of life. Conclusion: The presented physiotherapy program in a patient with endometriosis of the rectus abdominis muscle prevented late postoperative complications. Physiotherapy is an important part of a patient’s post-surgical care and supports optimal recovery, especially in patients of childbearing age.