Optimizing Physical Function Before Cancer Surgery in Older People at Risk

Launched by KAROLINSKA INSTITUTET · May 5, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how exercise before surgery can help older patients who are scheduled to have surgery for colorectal cancer. Researchers want to see if getting patients moving and improving their physical fitness before surgery can lead to fewer complications after the operation and a quicker recovery. The study is specifically focused on older adults aged 65 and over who have a slower walking speed, indicating they may be at higher risk during surgery.

To participate, patients must be set to undergo surgery for colorectal cancer or related liver issues, and they should be able to understand and speak Swedish. However, certain individuals, like those who are wheelchair-bound or have serious health problems that could interfere with exercise, won’t be included in the study. While the trial is currently not recruiting new participants, it’s important for eligible patients to know they could benefit from a structured exercise program aimed at improving their health before surgery.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Scheduled surgery due to colorectal cancer or liver metastases from colorectal cancer
• • Age ≥65
• • A maximal walking speed below 2 meters per second
• • Understands and speaks the Swedish language
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Planned hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) procedure or flap surgery
• • Health conditions that prevent participation in assessment or exercise. Such conditions include, but are not limited to, unstable heart disease, severe systematic illness or orthopaedic conditions that may prohibit exercise.
• • The need for surgery within 2 weeks
• • Permanent wheelchair user
• • Residence outside of Stockholm County