Supervised Home-Based Exercise Intervention in Colorectal Cancer Patients Following Surgery: A Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Surgical Recovery

Background:

• Colorectal cancer surgery requires effective recovery strategies.
• Early postoperative exercise can potentially enhance patient outcomes.
• Home-based programs offer accessibility for patients recovering from laparoscopic surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of a supervised, home-based exercise program for patients post-laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery.
• To assess the preliminary effects of this program on functional recovery, quality of life, and fatigue.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study with 23 patients: 13 in the exercise intervention group, 10 in the control group.
• Two-month supervised, home-based exercise program for the intervention group.
• Standard postoperative care for the control group. Assessments included functional capacity (Six-Minute Walk Test) and physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery).

Main Results:

• High adherence (98%) and no adverse events demonstrated program feasibility.
• Significant improvements in role function, cognitive function, and reduced fatigue at T1 in the intervention group.
• Enhanced functional capacity and physical performance at T1, T2, and T3 in the exercise group compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• A supervised home-based exercise program is feasible and safe for early postoperative recovery in colorectal cancer patients.
• The program positively impacts quality of life, functional recovery, and fatigue levels.
• Further research with larger cohorts is warranted to confirm these preliminary findings.