DOI: 10.4103/atmr.atmr_151_24 ISSN: 3050-807X

A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on the Efficacy of Rehabilitations in Colorectal Cancer Surgery for Improved Functional Capacity

Nujud Alessa, Renad Mohammed Alshehri, Sultan Banser, Ruba Mohammed, Alhassan Almonawar, Shatha Aljefri, Nada Sulaiman AlHarbi, Elie Hakme

Abstract

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery often results in a decline in functional capacity, impacting patients’ post-operative recovery. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitations in enhancing functional outcomes for individuals undergoing CRC surgery.

Materials and Methods:

Randomised controlled trials exploring prehabilitation effectiveness for functional capacity in CRC surgery patients were included in the study. Studies published until March 2024 were identified from PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library. Methodological quality was assessed using the risk of bias-1 tool. Statistical analysis involved calculating the mean difference (MD) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using Review Manager 5.4.1.

Results:

The systematic review included five studies involving 661 CRC patients. Prehabilitation led to a substantial improvement in functional capacity (MD = 18.25, 95% CI: −1.17–37.67; P = 0.07).

Conclusions:

The review and meta-analysis suggest that rehabilitation enhances functional ability post- CRC surgery, potentially reducing post-operative deterioration. Clinicians and health care regulators should consider incorporating rehabilitation into normal care for CRC patients, but further research is needed to improve rehabilitation procedures and long-term functional recovery effects.

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