The effect of outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation on patients with lung cancer – A retrospective data analysis

Abstract

Background: Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a baseline-therapy, latest studies showed the benefit in patients with lung cancer. Aims and objectives: The effect of outpatient PR on patients with lung cancer was investigated. The aim was to find out, whether effects are significant or even clinically relevant using the minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Methods: 32 lung cancer patients attended an outpatient PR program: in phase II(P2) 60 units a 50 minutes for 6 weeks, in phase III(P3) 45, 67.5 or 90 units for 6-12 months. BMI, pulmonary function and performance parameters (exercise-test in Watt W max , submaximal-test: 70% of W max –70%test, 6MWT, upper/lower limb strength SUL/SLL, maximal inspiratory pressure Pi max , minute volume MV, scores) were measured before and after PR. Restults: 32 patients, mean age 57.38±9.46, attended PR (16 P2; 16 P3) and 28 finished. Following parameters improved significant and clinically relevant (>MCID): W max from 94.44±31.68 to 114.4±39.02, p Following parameters improved significant (no MCID defined): Pi max from 84.60±34.15mbar to99.24±36.07mbar, p MMRC reached statistical significance, improved from 1.08±0.84 to 0.77±0.65, p Conclusions: Outpatient PR in patient with lung cancer is feasible and leads to significant and clinical relevant improvements in exercise capacity and quality of life.