Home-Based Prehabilitation Boosts Recovery for Colorectal Cancer Surgery Patients
Innovative Approach Shows Promising Results in Reducing Complications and Enhancing Physical Condition
Researchers have explored the impact of home-based prehabilitation on the physical condition of patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer.
“The prehabilitation program was trimodal, with recommendations for physical activity, nutritional supplementation, and relaxation exercises to be performed by patients during the preoperative period and during 6–8 weeks after surgery.”
During the study, participants divided into two groups: one undergoing prehabilitation and the other receiving standard care. The researchers tracked changes in physical condition using cardiopulmonary exercise testing and physical function (i.e., walking test) at key points—from diagnosis to the postoperative period at 6-8 weeks.
Key Findings
The results revealed that the prehabilitation group experienced a notable reduction in postoperative complications compared to the standard care group. Hospital stays were also shorter in the prehabilitation group, indicating a potentially faster recovery. Compared to the standard care group the prehabilitation group also had better physical and cardiorespiratory function both before and six weeks after surgery.
Bottom Line
Home-based prehabilitation has demonstrated its potential to significantly reduce postoperative complications, shorten hospital stays, and notably improve the physical condition of colorectal cancer surgery patients. This innovative approach opens new avenues for enhancing surgical outcomes and postoperative recovery in colorectal cancer patients.
Source: 10.1007/s00520-023-08140-4