Preoperative Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Lung Transplant: Effects on Pulmonary Function, Exercise Capacity, and Quality of Life; First Results in Turkey

Abstract

Objectives: The frequency and success rates of lung transplant in patients with end-stage lung disease are increasing. In our study, we investigated the effects of preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation on pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and quality of life in patients who are candidates for lung transplant.

Materials and methods: This prospective study included 39 consecutive patients who were candidates for lung transplant. All patients underwent preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation for at least 3 weeks.

Results: Our patient group included 25 male and 14 female patients with a mean age of 36 years (range, 15 -68 y). Although no significant improvement was shown in the forced expiratory volume in 1 second after pulmonary rehabilitation, significant improvements were observed in the Modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scores (P = .001) and 6-minute walk distance (P = .001). We also observed statistically significant improvements in the Short-Form 36 Quality of Life Questionnaire's physical function (P = .01) and emotional role (P = .02) subparameters. We also found a significant improvement in the Beck Depression Inventory score (P = .004). There was no correlation between Beck Depression Inventory scores before and after rehabilitation and 6-minute walk distance, Short-Form 36, and Modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scores.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation improves exercise capacity, reduces the sensation of dyspnea and muscle strength loss, and has a positive effect on the psychologic state of patients who are candidates for lung transplant.