Preoperative therapeutic programme for elderly patients scheduled for elective abdominal oncological surgery: a...

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Oncology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Elderly patients undergoing major abdominal surgery are at high risk for postoperative complications.
• Preoperative exercise interventions aim to improve patient resilience and outcomes.
• Feasibility and efficacy of intensive preoperative exercise programs in this population require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and preliminary effects of a short-term intensive preoperative exercise program.
• To evaluate the impact on respiratory muscle endurance, functional capacity, and postoperative course.
• To compare an intensive outpatient exercise program with home-based exercise advice.

Main Methods:

• A single-blind randomized controlled pilot study was conducted with 42 elderly patients (>60 years) scheduled for elective abdominal oncological surgery.
• Patients were randomized into an intervention group (intensive exercise program) or a control group (home-based advice).
• Feasibility, preoperative functional capacity, and postoperative course were assessed.

Main Results:

• The intensive training program was feasible, demonstrating high compliance and no adverse events.
• Significant improvement in respiratory muscle endurance was observed in the intervention group compared to the control group (P<0.01).
• No significant differences were found in functional capacity measures, Quality of Life, postoperative complications, or length of hospital stay.

Conclusions:

• An intensive preoperative exercise program is feasible for elderly patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery.
• This program effectively improved respiratory function compared to home-based exercise advice.
• Further research is warranted to explore its impact on other functional outcomes and long-term results.