Implementing a virtual mind-body prehabilitation program for patients undergoing thoracic surgery: A quality...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Prehabilitation
• Digital Health Interventions

Background:

• Prehabilitation improves outcomes for thoracic surgery cancer patients.
• COVID-19 limited access to in-person prehabilitation programs.
• A need for accessible, remote prehabilitation emerged.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a synchronous, virtual mind-body prehabilitation program.
• To assess patient satisfaction and experiences with the virtual program.
• To determine the feasibility of implementing remote prehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Patients aged 18+ with thoracic cancer referred for surgery were eligible.
• A weekly 2x 45-minute virtual mind-body fitness class via Zoom was provided.
• Data collected on referrals, enrollment, participation, satisfaction, and qualitative experiences.

Main Results:

• 197/260 (76%) patients participated; 140/197 (71%) attended at least one class.
• High patient satisfaction reported: 97.8% extremely satisfied, 91.2% likely to recommend.
• Significant benefits reported: reduced anxiety (94.2%), fatigue (88.5%), pain (80.7%), shortness of breath (86.5%).

Conclusions:

• The virtual mind-body prehabilitation program was well-received and highly feasible.
• High satisfaction and reported benefits suggest effectiveness in preparing patients for surgery.
• This virtual approach can overcome barriers to in-person prehabilitation participation.