Endurance Training in Patients Undergoing Lung Transplantation

Endurance Training in Patients Undergoing Lung Transplantation: Differences Between Treadmill and Cycle Ergometry Training

Lung Transplantation is usually the last option for patients with chronic respiratory conditions in the late stages of the disease. Pulmonary rehabilitation and, particularly, endurance training, is a cornerstone in the management of these patients both during the pre-operative as well as the post-operative period as it improves cardiopulmonary fitness, muscle mass, muscle strength, health-related quality of life and potentially, survival. However, very few studies have been published addressing which modality of training, intensity, frequency or duration of training provides the best possible results in these patients. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare two training modalities (treadmill walking versus cycle-ergometry) on functional capacity, muscle strength and lung function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients undergoing lung transplantation at the Thoracic Surgery Unit of the Hospital Clínico Universitario de A Coruña.
• Adults > 18 years.
• Ability to attend post-surgery exercise training for a minimum period of one month.
• Sign informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Torpid post-operative recovery with a prolonged stay at the Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit > 12 days.
• Diagnosed with intensive care unit acquired muscle weakness.