Physiotherapy after emergency laparotomy for older adults
Official title: Effect of Postoperative Physiotherapy on Postoperative Outcomes of Elderly Patients Undergoing Emergency Laparotomy
Run by University of Cyprus · NCT07504185 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study will test whether a five-day structured physiotherapy program after emergency open abdominal surgery helps people aged 65 and older recover function faster and have fewer complications.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Cyprus Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Nicosia) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 13, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | March 31, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07504185 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are patients aged 65 or older undergoing emergency laparotomy who can stand briefly with minimal assistance and can provide informed consent or have a legal representative do so.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with significant cognitive impairment (AMTS < 6), severe pre-existing mobility disabilities, contraindications to physiotherapy, palliative/end-of-life procedures, transfers from other hospitals, or negative laparotomies are excluded and unlikely to benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This is a multicenter, randomized, parallel-group trial enrolling patients aged 65 and older who undergo emergency laparotomy and are clinically stable on the surgical ward. Participants are randomized 1:1 to a standardized, progressive five-day postoperative physiotherapy package (early supervised mobilization, coached breathing and airway clearance exercises, and supported self-practice with family/caregiver engagement) or to usual postoperative care. Functional recovery is measured with validated tools during the hospital stay and at 30- and 90-day follow-up, with secondary outcomes including postoperative and pulmonary complications, length of stay, mortality, and health-related quality of life. Analyses follow the intention-to-treat principle and use computer-generated allocation after surgery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could speed functional recovery, reduce pulmonary and other postoperative complications, and shorten hospital stays for older patients after emergency laparotomy.
How similar studies have gone: Early mobilization and physiotherapy programs have shown benefits in elective and general surgical populations, but randomized evidence specifically in older emergency laparotomy patients is limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged ≥ 65 years * Undergoing emergency laparotomy with or without stoma creation (adhesiolysis, right hemicolectomy, total colectomy, Hartmann's procedure, cholecystectomy, abscess drainage). Able to provide informed consent or have a legally authorized representative provide consent. Able to maintain an upright standing position for at least one minute with minimal or no assistance. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with Dementia (Abbreviated Mental Test Score \< 6) * Pre-existing severe disabilities affecting mobility * Patients with contraindications to physiotherapy (e.g., severe cardiopulmonary instability) * Patients transferred postoperatively from other hospitals * Patients who underwent no intervention during laparotomy (negative laparotomies) * Patients undergoing palliative procedures and at the end of life
Where it's running
-
Nicosia General Hospital
Nicosia, Cyprus Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Polyxeni Michael Vargiamidou, PT
- Email: michael-vargiamidou.p@ucy.ac.cy
- Phone: +35799476613
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.