Impact of physical activity on surgery outcomes

Perioperative Impact After Non-cardiac Surgery of Physical Activity on Short- and Long-term Morbidity and Mortality

Observational Karolinska Institutet · NCT06678360

This study is trying to see if being more physically active before surgery can help adults avoid complications and live longer after having non-heart-related surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment180000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorKarolinska Institutet Academic / other
Locations1 site (Stockholm)
Trial IDNCT06678360 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational cohort study investigates the relationship between self-reported physical activity levels and the risk of complications and mortality in adult patients undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery. By collecting data on various factors such as age, sex, body mass index, and co-morbid conditions, the study aims to determine if higher Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) scores correlate with lower perioperative morbidity and mortality. The analysis will utilize multivariable methods to assess the impact of physical activity on surgical outcomes, providing valuable insights into modifiable risk factors in the perioperative setting.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adult patients aged 18 and older who are scheduled for elective non-cardiac surgery.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing emergency surgeries, transplant procedures, or those under 18 years old may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help identify physical activity as a key factor in reducing surgical complications and improving patient survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a potential link between physical activity and improved surgical outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield meaningful insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Adult patients (equal to or over 18 years) undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery at the two study sites, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients under the age of 18, transplant, day surgery, acute surgery, anesthesia monitoring, brachy therapy and gamma knife interventions. In case of multiple surgeries, only the first will be included.

Where this trial is running

Stockholm

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions General SurgeryPerioperative ComplicationPerioperative MedicinePhysical InactivityMET-scoresPhysical activityPerioperative mortality
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.