Abstract
To assess whether the tests - Forced Expiratory Volume at one second (FEV₁), 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and stair-climbing test (SCT) showed proportional changes after the resection of functioning lung. Candidates for pulmonary resection were included. Spirometry, 6MWT and SCT were performed preoperatively (pre) and at least 3 months after surgery (pos). SCT was performed on a staircase with a total ascent height of 12.16m. The time taken to climb the total height the fastest possible was defined as stair-climbing time (SCt). Number of functioning segments lost, was used to calculated predicted postoperative (ppo) tests values. Pre, ppo and pos values for each test were compared. Data were analyzed by repeated-measure ANOVA with significance level set at 5%. A total of 40 patients were enrolled. Pulmonary resection results ranged from gain of 2 functioning segments to loss of 9. Pre, ppo and pos values were the following: preFEV₁ = 2.6±0.8L, ppo FEV₁ =2.3±0.8L, and pos FEV₁=2.3±0.8L, (pre FEV₁ > ppo FEV₁ = pos FEV₁); pre6MWT = 604±63m, ppo6MWT= 529±103m, pos6MWT= 599±74m (pre6MWT = pos6MWT > ppo6MWT); preSCt = 32.9±7.6s, ppoSCt = 37.8±12.1s, posSCt = 33.7±8.5s (preSCt = posSCt < ppoSCt). In our group of patients, pulmonary resection led to loss of lung function measured by spirometry, but not to exercise capacity measured by stair-climbing and walk tests.
Highlights
Isolated thoracotomy is known to reduce pulmonary volumes and capacity for several weeks after surgery
Pulmonary resection results ranged from gain of 2 functioning segments to loss of 9
In our group of patients, pulmonary resection led to loss of lung function measured by spirometry, but not to exercise capacity measured by stair-climbing and walk tests
Summary
Isolated thoracotomy is known to reduce pulmonary volumes and capacity for several weeks after surgery. Surgery may be contraindicated when predicted postoperative (ppo) lung volumes are minimal and not compatible with life. Ppo values are lower than actual postoperative values[1], this can carry surgery contraindications in patients that could tolerate the surgery. The results of exercise tests have been considered stronger prognostic predictors than spirometry, which only assesses lungs at resting and is, recommended for preoperative screening[2]. A very efficient test for the evaluation of exercise performance is ergospirometry. Few are the centers where ergospirometers are available. Other tests, such as the stairclimbing test (SCT), the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) or the 12-minute walk test (12MWT), are not so efficient, but can be undertaken nearly everywhere
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
