Home-based preparation was linked to better walking performance before colorectal cancer surgery
A review found better walking-test results before surgery, but postoperative function and complications did not show statistically significant improvements.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
This abstract-based review found better walking-test performance before colorectal cancer surgery with home-based programs combining several forms of preparation. After surgery, the analyses did not detect significant benefits in walking performance, complications, hospital use, anxiety, or depression. Those findings leave uncertainty about whether preoperative gains translate into a better recovery.
The abstract does not identify the number or designs of included studies, describe the comparison care, or provide program lengths. It also omits units for the pooled walking-test difference.
What researchers found
Preoperative six-minute walk test
Home-based prehabilitation was favored before surgery; the abstract does not specify the comparator or effect units.
What the programs targeted
The review examined preparation delivered at home before surgery. Its background describes combined physical, nutritional, and psychological support. The main measured outcome was walking-test change during the period leading up to surgery.
Why timing matters
The postoperative walking estimates were uncertain, with confidence intervals spanning improvement and worsening. The lack of statistically significant postoperative findings does not establish that these programs have no effect on recovery.
The original publication
Home-based multimodal prehabilitation before colorectal cancer surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
He Y, Yuan X, Gao S et al.
Support Care Cancer · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41870618
- Record checked
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