Prehabilitation for Aortic Repair Patients

Does Prehabilitation Prior to Thoracic Aortic Repair Improve Quality of Care?

This is a 2-group study comparing the effect of a "prehabilitation" program to usual care on quality of life and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing elective repair of their thoracic aorta.

Patients undergoing elective repair of their thoracic aortic aneurysm will be randomized to a "prehabilitation" program prior to their surgery or to usual care. The prehabilitation program is self-directed program designed to improve health and quality of life prior to surgery. The program is currently offered to general surgery patients; this study will examine the feasibility and acceptability of such a program in a different patient population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 21 years or older
• Diagnosis of thoracic aortic disease with scheduled repair
• Medical clearance from cardiothoracic surgeon
• Ability to provide informed consent
• Regular use of a smartphone or personal computer

Exclusion Criteria:

• Conditions that limit walking to a severe degree
• Current participation in regular physical activity program
• Acute aortic dissection
• Recent coronary artery disease events
• Inability to speak and read English