Introduction
For most prehabilitation programs physical exercise is the foundation. The hypothesis is that older patients who are psychically frailer should benefit most from prehabilitation programs. In this study performed by Argillander et al., the correlation between a preoperative care program to optimize patients’ physical condition and surgical outcomes was investigated. In older patients undergoing surgery, preoperative sedentary behavior was associated with frailty and worse physical performance. Prehabilitation programs across surgical specialties can gain insights from these baseline data.
Research methods
MOX1-accelerometers were used to quantify the physical activity of the patients. The MOX is a validated accelerometer-based activity logger that seamlessly measures and records high resolution raw acceleration data up to 7 days. MOX is medical device CE certified. The accelerometers where attached on the thigh 10cm above the knee to measure 24 hours for seven days. The MOX1 measures raw acceleration data on three orthogonal axes at a sampling rate of 25 Hz. Accelerometry data were analyzed using IDEEQ software, to determine the time spent in various postures (sitting/lying or standing) and dynamic and non-dynamic movements.
Results
Preoperative accelerometry-measured sedentary activity was linked with frailty and lower physical functioning regardless of cancer type in this prospective multicenter exploratory investigation in older patients with colorectal and gynecological cancer receiving surgery. These baseline data may be useful to developers of future prehabilitation programs across surgical specialties, as we established that sedentary behavior and physical parameters are comparable among surgical groups. Future research should look into if there are any physical activity minimums that must be met in order to avoid unfavorable postoperative effects.
Related products
MOX1 Activity logger for physical activity assessment.
The MOX1 is a validated accelerometer-based activity logger that seamlessly measures and records high resolution raw acceleration data up to 7 days. By using the IDEEQ software featuring our proprietary algorithms, objective measurements of human physical activity can be classified and quantified. The waterproof system design and biocompatible adhesive ensures easy application and comfortable wear by the subject.
Hospital Fit
The tracking of patient’s activities provides useful insights for patients as well as healthcare professionals. With a user-friendly dashboard, patients get access to monitor daily activity and improve recovery. Patients are being incentivized to boost their physical activity during the day. Together with the professional healthcare providers they can determine which exercises will suit them and provide a personalized training schedule for the patient. For more information check our Hospital Fit page.
How can we help you with your research?
Maastricht Instruments creates equipment in the field for accelerometry. We provide support for Clinical research, E-health applications, accelerometry algorithms and data processing and analyses. Consult us about our accelerometry products, MOX1, MOX2, MOX3, MOX5 and BACE. or eHealth applications: Hospital Fit and Miss Activity
Article reference
Preoperative physical activity and frailty in older patients undergoing cancer surgery – PREsurgery study (Argillander et al., 2021)
Keywords: Accelerometry, prehabilitation, physical activity