Study of Inspiratory Muscle Training for Patients Undergoing Esophageal Surgery

A Pilot Study of Inspiratory Muscle Training for Patients Undergoing Esophageal Surgery

To obtain definitive evidence for the effectiveness of a short preoperative inspiratory muscle training (IMT) protocol on the morbidity and recovery from an esophageal surgical resection.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer and scheduled for esophageal resection at the Mayo Clinic Rochester with gastric conduit reconstruction -Cognitively capable to understand and perform a preoperative program
• Able to follow the intervention program for at least 2 weeks before surgery (surgery is usually scheduled 4 to 12 weeks after radiation)
• Willing to sign the informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unable to communicate in the English language
• Participating in a conflicting trial concerning esophageal resection