Repeated measures correlation between functional capacity, pulmonary function and chest expansion in children undergoing open abdominal surgery: Secondary analysis from randomized clinical trial

Abstract

PurposeSix minute walk test (6MWT), Spirometry and chest expansion are used regularly to investigate the status of functional capacity and pulmonary function pre and post operatively. We assessed whether Functional capacity Ten meter walk test (10mWT), Nine stair climbing test (9SCT), pulmonary function [Spirometry parameters (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio and PEFR)] and chest expansion have correlation in children undergoing open abdominal surgery. MethodsTotal 18 children aged 5–17 years old undergoing open abdominal surgery participated in the study. The study follows secondary analysis from randomized clinical trial. 6MWT, Spirometry parameters (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio and PEFR), 10mWT, 9SCT, and Chest expansion measures were taken before [Preoperative day (Pre-OP)] and after open abdominal surgery [postoperative day one (POD1) and postoperative day five (POD5)]. ResultsBivariate analysis showed no correlation (rs <0.25; p>0.05) between Functional capacity and pulmonary function preoperatively, on POD1, and on POD5. 9SCT (Functional capacity) showed moderate to good correlation (rs= 0.742; p<0.05) with pulmonary function at the Pre-OP. Chest expansion parameters also showed moderate to good correlation (rs = 0.50–0.75; p<0.05) with the pulmonary function on Pre-OP, POD1, and POD5. ConclusionThere is moderate correlation exists between pulmonary function and chest expansion, but poor correlation of functional capacity with pulmonary function and chest expansion. Hence, all the outcome measures (6MWT, 10Mwt, 9SCT, Spirometry, and Chest expansion) are having individual importance.