Aim This study aims to evaluate the effects of prehabilitation on the quality of life (QoL) of patients undergoing gastrointestinal cancer resection, addressing the existing gap in knowledge regarding this specific population. Method A systematic search of relevant terms was independently conducted by two authors across multiple databases. Selection criteria were applied rigorously, with conflicts resolved through consultation with senior researchers. From the initial pool of 33 articles, 6 studies were chosen for inclusion. Data extraction and analysis were performed to assess the significance of prehabilitation interventions on post-resection QoL. Result The selected 6 studies, despite displaying noticeable heterogeneity in methodologies and outcomes, consistently indicated a positive impact of prehabilitation on the role functioning aspect of QoL, as measured by the C30 QoL survey. The studies collectively involved a substantial number of patients. Conclusions The evidence from the reviewed studies suggests a favourable influence of prehabilitation on the post-resection QoL of gastrointestinal cancer patients, particularly in the domain of role functioning. However, limitations such as heterogeneity in Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) and a lack of long-term follow-up data, should be acknowledged. To provide more definitive conclusions, future RCTs should employ standardised QoL questionnaires like the C30 QoL and extend follow-up periods. This would enhance our understanding of the role of prehabilitation in improving patient outcomes following gastrointestinal cancer resection.
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Razzaq et al. (2024) studied this question.
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