Transform Your Surgery Recovery: How ‘Prehabilitation’ Can Simplify Healing
Preparing for surgery can be overwhelming, but incorporating prehabilitation into your routine can significantly enhance your recovery. Prehabilitation involves implementing a structured approach focused on exercise, nutrition, and social support in the weeks leading up to your surgery. According to recent studies, adopting such measures can drastically reduce the risk of complications and improve overall recovery outcomes.
Researchers emphasize the importance of this proactive strategy, asserting that small changes can lead to big results. “With this information, we can now move forward in helping patients to know what strategies may be best for them to prepare for surgery, and for researchers what key areas need to be the focus of new studies,” highlighted Daniel McIsaac, MD, a lead study author and anesthesiologist at the University of Ottawa.
What Is Prehabilitation?
Prehabilitation is a well-regarded strategy designed to assist individuals in preparing for major surgical procedures. According to Michael Sutherland, MD, a general surgeon and senior vice president of member services for the American College of Surgeons, “It’s very effective in circumstances when the procedure is scheduled at least one week in advance so that you have a little bit of time to take advantage of strategies that help prepare the body for the stress of surgery.”
Essentially, it’s a proactive approach. Chelsia Gillis, PhD, a researcher at McGill University, states, “We have adopted a view that recovery begins before the surgical incision.” Although the term ‘prehabilitation’ is commonly accepted in medical circles, it remains relatively unknown to the general public.
Key Findings from Recent Studies
A study published in The BMJ analyzed data from 186 clinical trials involving nearly 15,700 patients. Here are some significant findings:
- Regular Exercise: Patients who exercised before surgery had a 50% lower risk of complications than those who did not.
- Healthy Diet: Following a nutritious diet lowered the risk of complications by 38%.
- Combined Approach: Individuals focusing on diet, exercise, and social support experienced a 36% reduction in complications.
- Hospital Stay: Those who engaged in a mix of exercise and social support spent two fewer days in the hospital.
Despite these promising results, researchers noted limitations. Many studies analyzed data from a single hospital, making it challenging to gauge how well these findings apply in varied healthcare settings. However, McIsaac noted the relevance of focusing on exercise, nutrition, and psychosocial support to improve surgical outcomes, stating, “Across almost all areas of healthcare, being more physically fit, having good nutrition, and feeling mentally well lead to better patient outcomes.”
Building on Research Insights
While the aforementioned study did not differentiate results based on patient age or type of surgery, earlier research has delved deeper into these areas. A scientific review from 2023 surveyed 48 trials related to prehabilitation prior to orthopedic procedures, highlighting substantial improvements in:
- Functionality
- Quality of life
- Muscle strength
- Reduction of back pain
Another 2023 clinical trial targeting adults with colorectal cancer discovered that a four-week prehabilitation program led to a notable reduction in severe complications and enabled faster recovery.
Conversely, a 2024 study specifically on older adults indicated that while prehabilitation improved exercise capacity and nutrition, enhancements in muscle strength and cognitive function were minimal for this demographic group.
Creating a Personalized Prehabilitation Routine
The most effective prehabilitation program is one tailored to your individual needs. Tracey Childs, MD, asserts that “Patients should check with their surgeon as well as their medical specialists and request advice for preparing for surgery.” She emphasizes that the earlier one starts this preparation, the more beneficial the outcome will be.
To establish a healthy prehabilitation routine, consider the following components:
- Dietary Adjustments: Focus on specific foods or macronutrients as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Exercise Programs: A mix of aerobic activities, regular walking, strength training, and resistance exercises can be beneficial. It’s essential to note that this does not require beginning an intense training regimen.
McIsaac suggests that a typical prehabilitation program may span four to five weeks before surgery. If you’re already on a healthy path, consulting your healthcare team can ensure that your approach aligns with medical recommendations.
In summary, prehabilitation is an essential process that can improve the outcomes of your surgical experience. By focusing on exercise, nutrition, and social support, patients can significantly enhance their recovery journey and reduce the risk of complications. Consult with your healthcare provider to tailor a prehabilitation plan that aligns with your specific needs.
