Skeletal muscle strength and functional exercise capacity in patients undergoing surgery for lung cancer

Background Although the most effective treatment for lung cancer remains complete surgical resection with curative intent, it is unclear how pulmonary resection has influenced physical function during early postoperative period after surgery. Objectives The purpose of this study was to identify the impact of surgery for lung cancer on skeletal muscle function and exercise capacity. Methods Handgrip and Quadriceps force (HF, QF) and six minute walking distance (6MWD) were assessed in 168 patients (108 males, age 68±8) before and 1 week after surgery, lung resection by video assisted thoracotomy surgery or thoracotomy. All patients received standard perioperative physiotherapy. Results Significant decreases were found in HF (29.5±9.2kg vs. 28.3±9.0kg, respectively; P Conclusions Skeletal muscle strength and functional exercise capacity during the early postoperative period after lung resection decreased , and patients who had lower 6MWD were significantly more pulmonary complications and longer duration of chest tube drainage. These results suggest that routine exercise testing and training in early postoperative period after surgery are needed for improving physical function and activities.