Pre-hab

Did you know?

Funded by Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven, a special ‘pre-hab’ programme is now up and running, making a real difference to patients waiting for reconstructive surgery.  It has been set up following increasing evidence that physical pre-habilitation can mean a quicker recovery from surgery and potentially reduce the risk of surgical or post-op complications.   

Once again, thanks to the insight and drive of Jo Skillman (plastic surgeon) and Steven Thrush (breast surgeon), WBUH is leading the way in implementing the concept of pre-hab for breast cancer patients in our county.

The programme focuses on improving fitness, reducing weight and building strength, and is available for those patients waiting for breast reconstruction having completed their treatment.

The results are already in from the first group!  Five patients took part in a 12-week programme of exercise, through tailored and supportive training sessions led by our expert PT Leighton Bentley who is specially trained in cancer rehabilitation.

• All achieved a minimum 25% improvement in global strength and cardiovascular fitness
• Physically fitter patients recover more quickly, and the two patients who have since had their surgery, were able to be discharged earlier
• Additionally, their emotional well-being benefited massively from the prehab sessions, boosting their confidence and resilience, whilst reducing anxiety about upcoming surgery

Feedback from patients attending these rehab sessions includes: "Since starting the course, my confidence has grown massively. I now feel comfortable going to the gym and trying different exercises that I would never have attempted before. My physical fitness has definitely improved, but even more importantly, I’ve noticed a real improvement in my mental health too. Exercise gives me a lift afterwards and helps me feel more positive and hopeful about the future."

If you would like to find out more, or be considered for pre-hab, please speak to your consultant.