Preoperative and postoperative conditioning for lung transplantation and volume-reduction surgery

This article summarizes the importance of preoperative and postoperative conditioning for lung transplantation and volume reduction surgery. Assessment of exercise tolerance and functional status and identification of the primary limitations to exercise conditioning will enhance preoperative and postoperative exercise conditioning. Exercise conditioning can be implemented in a pyramidal manner with emphasis on the most needed and appropriate mode of exercise and the manipulation of exercise frequency, duration, and intensity. Several important adjuncts to exercise conditioning can improve exercise conditioning efforts before and after lung transplantation and volume reduction surgery, including ventilatory muscle training, optimal use of supplemental oxygen and pulmonary medications, and different methods to prescribe aerobic exercise.