Participants were highly satisfied with the prehabilitation program, especially with its multimodal aspect, highlighting the value of multidisciplinary education and exercise components, while also providing constructive feedback for improvement such as increased supervision during exercise sessions.
Key Findings
Results
Overall satisfaction with the prehabilitation program was high among patients undergoing abdominal or thoracic surgery.
107 participants were included in the study
Most participants rated their experience very positive
Most participants indicated they would recommend the program to others
The study was conducted at a large tertiary hospital in Australia
Results
Participants valued the combined exercise and education components of the prehabilitation program.
The program was described by participants as helpful in preparing them for surgery
Participants highlighted the value of multidisciplinary education and exercise components
The multimodal aspect of the program was particularly appreciated
Results
Qualitative feedback identified several areas for improvement in the prehabilitation program.
Participants identified a need for clearer pain management information
Earlier referrals to allow for longer participation in the program were requested
Participants indicated a need for sufficient information at hospital discharge
Increased supervision during exercise sessions was requested by several participants
Open-ended responses were analyzed using content analysis
Methods
A cross-sectional survey design was used to assess patient experiences with prehabilitation.
The survey was conducted 2 weeks post-hospital discharge
The study was conducted at a large tertiary hospital in Australia
Responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics
Open-ended responses were analyzed using content analysis
107 participant responses were included
Background
Prehabilitation has shown efficacy in minimizing post-operative complications and hospital length of stay.
Prehabilitation has emerged as a vital component in preparing patients for surgery
Evidence indicates that prehabilitation improves patient outcomes
Understanding patients' experiences is described as crucial for optimizing these programs to ensure they are effectively designed to meet patients' needs
Modi Y, Kamarova S, Dale M, Anderson D, Lai W, Sharma A, et al.. (2026). Patient's Experiences and Satisfaction With Prehabilitation for Abdominal and Thoracic Surgery.. Physiotherapy research international : the journal for researchers and clinicians in physical therapy. https://doi.org/10.1002/pri.70189