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Rectus Femoris Ultrasound to Evaluate Muscle During Prehabilitation for Patients With Cancer
Wariya Vongchaiudomchoke1, José A Morais2, Do Jun Kim3
1Department of Anesthesia, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Division of Surgical and Interventional Sciences, Department of Surgery, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Prehabilitation did not significantly change rectus femoris muscle thickness or echo intensity in cancer patients awaiting surgery. However, it improved walking capacity, suggesting a role in preserving muscle function.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Geriatrics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Skeletal muscle wasting is common in cancer patients before surgery.
- Prehabilitation aims to improve functional capacity but its effect on muscle is inconsistent.
- This study explored muscle changes using ultrasound during prehabilitation for cancer surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in rectus femoris muscle thickness and echo intensity using ultrasound.
- To assess the impact of a prehabilitation program on muscle characteristics and physical function in cancer patients.
- To determine the feasibility and reliability of ultrasound for monitoring muscle during prehabilitation.
Main Methods:
- Prospective pre-post interventional study of adult cancer patients undergoing prehabilitation (exercise, nutrition, psychosocial).
- Ultrasound of rectus femoris thickness and echo intensity measured at baseline and post-intervention.
- Physical function assessed alongside muscle measurements.
Main Results:
- No significant changes in muscle thickness or echo intensity were observed post-prehabilitation.
- A significant increase in 6-minute walk distance (19 m) indicated improved functional capacity.
- Improved muscle thickness/echo intensity correlated with better leg strength and walking capacity.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound assessment of the rectus femoris is feasible and reliable for monitoring muscle changes during prehabilitation.
- Prehabilitation may help preserve muscle in cancer patients during the preoperative period, alongside functional improvements.
