Association between Inpatient Moderate-to-vigorous Physical Activity and Functional Recovery following Lung Resection for Neoplastic Lung Diseases.

Objectives: This study investigated whether moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in patients after pulmonary resection is significantly associated with the 6-min walking distance recovery rate (6MWD-RR). Methods: A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted between October 2017 and March 2020. Of the 114 patients who underwent pulmonary resection for neoplastic lung disease, 60 were included in the final analysis. The 6-min walk test was performed preoperatively and before discharge. The 6MWD-RR was calculated as (postoperative 6MWD/preoperative 6MWD) × 100. Participants were classified into High (6MWD-RR ≥90%) and Low (6MWD-RR <90%) RR groups. Postoperative MVPA was measured using a triaxial accelerometer after chest tubes were removed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between %MVPA (MVPA [min/day]/wearing time [min/day] × 100) and 6MWD-RR. Results: The High- and Low-RR groups comprised 39 (26 men, 67%) and 21 (9 men, 43%) patients, respectively. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, and preoperative factors (forced vital capacity %predicted, 6MWD, quadriceps strength), a higher %MVPA was significantly associated with a higher 6MWD-RR (odds ratio 1.38, 95% confidence interval 1.08-1.87). Conclusions: Higher postoperative %MVPA was associated with better functional recovery at discharge after lung resection. Further studies are required to clarify the causal relationships and to establish effective postoperative rehabilitation strategies.