Journal of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (202) 780-3397

Short Communication - Journal of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation (2024) Volume 8, Issue 6

Prehabilitation Programs: Enhancing Health and Improving Recovery

Ryan Rosenthal

Department of Concord Repatriation, General Hospital, Australia.

Corresponding Author:
Ryan Rosenthal
Department of Concord Repatriation,
General Hospital
Australia
E-mail: ryan@rsenthal.au

Received: 02-Nov-2024, Manuscript No. AAOSR-24-155729; Editor assigned: 04-Nov-2024, PreQC No. AAOSR-24-155729 (PQ); Reviewed: 18-Nov-2024, QC No. AAOSR-24-155729; Revised: 25-Nov-2024, Manuscript No. AAOSR-24-155729 (R); Published: 30-Nov-2024, DOI: 10.35841/aaosr-8.6.236

Citation:  Rosenthal R. Prehabilitation programs: Enhancing health and improving recovery. J Ortho Sur Reh. 2024;8(6):236.

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation

Abstract

    

Introduction

Prehabilitation, or pre-surgical rehabilitation, is an emerging approach that focuses on optimizing the physical and mental well-being of patients before undergoing surgery. While traditional rehabilitation aims to help individuals recover post-surgery, prehabilitation programs focus on preparing patients for the procedure itself, reducing the risk of complications, and enhancing the body's ability to cope with the stresses of surgery and recovery. These programs are particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing major surgeries, including orthopedic, cardiovascular, and cancer surgeries, as well as those with chronic health conditions. Prehabilitation involves physical, psychological, and nutritional interventions delivered before surgery to improve health outcomes. The goal is to ensure that patients are in the best possible physical and mental state prior to undergoing surgery. This multidisciplinary approach may include exercise regimens, nutritional counseling, stress management techniques, and patient education on post-surgery recovery expectations. [1,2].

Physical activity is a cornerstone of prehabilitation programs. For patients undergoing major surgery, improving strength, flexibility, and aerobic capacity before the procedure can result in faster recovery times and reduced complications. Exercise helps to preserve muscle mass, enhance cardiovascular function, and improve overall stamina, all of which are critical for the healing process.Proper nutrition plays a key role in prehabilitation. A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals can support muscle repair, immune function, and tissue healing, reducing the risk of post-operative complications. Nutritional counseling ensures that patients receive the right amount of nutrients to boost their health before surgery.The emotional and psychological well-being of patients is equally important. The stress and anxiety surrounding surgery can negatively impact recovery. Psychological prehabilitation includes techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and relaxation exercises to reduce anxiety and promote a positive mindset. This support can help patients manage stress, reduce postoperative pain, and improve their overall recovery experience. [3,4].

One of the most significant benefits of prehabilitation is a decrease in complications following surgery. Studies have shown that patients who engage in prehabilitation programs experience fewer postoperative complications, such as infections, blood clots, and longer hospital stays. A physically prepared body can better withstand the trauma of surgery.Prehabilitation has been linked to shorter recovery times. By increasing strength, stamina, and flexibility before surgery, patients are better prepared to engage in the postoperative rehabilitation process. This leads to quicker mobilization, reduced dependence on pain medication, and a faster return to normal activities.Mental well-being plays a vital role in recovery. Prehabilitation helps patients mentally prepare for surgery by addressing stress and anxiety through counseling and relaxation techniques. This not only helps reduce feelings of fear and uncertainty but also supports better coping mechanisms during the recovery phase.By preventing complications and improving recovery times, prehabilitation can reduce overall healthcare costs. Shorter hospital stays, fewer complications, and less reliance on intensive post-operative care contribute to more cost-effective treatment. [5,6].

While prehabilitation has shown promise for all surgical patients, certain groups may benefit more significantly.Cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can be physically and emotionally taxing. Prehabilitation programs for cancer patients can help improve physical functioning, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall resilience, thereby improving both the surgical outcome and the experience of treatment.Older adults often face increased risks during surgery, including a higher likelihood of complications and longer recovery times. Prehabilitation can help mitigate these risks by improving mobility, strength, and general health before surgery.For individuals undergoing heart surgery or joint replacement, prehabilitation programs focused on aerobic conditioning, strength training, and flexibility are critical for ensuring optimal recovery. [7,8].

While the benefits of prehabilitation are clear, there are some barriers to widespread implementation. Many patients and healthcare providers are not fully aware of prehabilitation’s potential benefits. Lack of knowledge can hinder patients from engaging in prehabilitation programs before surgery. The cost of prehabilitation programs and the availability of trained professionals (e.g., physiotherapists, dietitians, and mental health counselors) may limit access, especially in resource-constrained. Prehabilitation programs require patient commitment and consistency. Adherence to exercise regimens and nutritional plans can be challenging, especially for patients with existing health conditions or low motivation. [9,10].

Conclusion

Prehabilitation programs are a promising tool in enhancing health outcomes and improving recovery for surgical patients. By addressing physical, mental, and nutritional health before surgery, prehabilitation reduces complications, accelerates recovery, and improves patient well-being. As healthcare systems continue to evolve, greater emphasis on prehabilitation could result in more efficient and cost-effective care, ultimately leading to better surgical outcomes and improved quality of life for patients

References

  1. Ban KA, Minei JP, Laronga C, et al. American College of Surgeons and Surgical Infection Society: surgical site infection guidelines, 2016 update. JJ Am Coll Surg. 2017 ;224(1):59-74.

    2.  Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

  2. Li GQ, Guo FF, Ou Y, et al. Epidemiology and outcomes of surgical site infections following orthopedic surgery. Am J Infect Control. 2013;41(12):1268-71.

    3.  Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

  3. Liu X, Dong Z, Li J, et al. Factors affecting the incidence of surgical site infection after geriatric hip fracture surgery: A retrospective multicenter study. J Orthop Surg Res. 2019;14:1-9.

    4.   Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

  4. Shao J, Zhang H, Yin B, et al. Risk factors for surgical site infection following operative treatment of ankle fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Surg J. 2018;56:124-32.

    5. Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

  5. Momaya AM, Hlavacek J, Etier B, et al. Risk factors for infection after operative fixation of Tibial plateau fractures. Injury. 2016;47(7):1501-5.

    6.         Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

  6. Colman M, Wright A, Gruen G, et al. Prolonged operative time increases infection rate in tibial plateau fractures. Injury. 2013;44(2):249-52

    7.  Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

  7. Silverberg ND, Iaccarino MA, Panenka WJ, et al. Management of concussion and mild traumatic brain injury: a synthesis of practice guidelines. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2020;101(2):382-93.

    8.         Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

  8. Sheridan E, Wiseman JM, Malik AT, et al. The role of sociodemographics in the occurrence of orthopaedic trauma. Injury. 2019;50(7):1288-92.

    9. Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

  9. McKissack HM, Viner GC, McMurtrie JT, et al. Does insurance status affect access to care among ankle fracture patients? An institutional retrospective study. J Foot Ankle Surg. 2021 ;60(3):520-2.

    10.        Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

  10. Beiter K, Danos D, Conrad E, et al. PTSD treatment reduces risk of trauma recidivism in a diverse community at a safety-net hospital: A propensity score analysis of data from a level one trauma center. Injury.2022;53(7):2493-500.

    11. Indexed at, Google scholar, Cross ref

     

Get the App