Surgery

Collage of three pictures featuring surgeons and theatre staff at work.

Prehabilitation

Graphically representation spelling out the meaning of PRIME.

 

The PRIME Prehabilitation Programme helps patients prepare for and recover from cancer surgery. Our multidisciplinary team, comprising Physiotherapists, an Occupational Therapist, and a Dietitian, works with you to optimise your physical, nutritional, and emotional wellbeing before surgery. We offer supervised exercise classes, both online and in person, as well as education and guidance to support your preparation and recovery. The support you receive is tailored to your individual needs, circumstances, and goals.

Currently our service is aimed at patients having oesophageal, pancreatic, bladder, ovarian and colorectal cancer surgery.

What does it involve?

Your initial appointment may take place in person, by video call, or over the telephone. During this appointment, we will discuss your health, current activity levels, and any concerns you may have. Together, we will develop a personalised plan to support you in the weeks leading up to your surgery.

Depending on your needs, this may include:

  • Advice and signposting to relevant support services.
  • A tailored exercise programme to follow at home.
  • Online or in-person exercise classes led by our team.
  • One-to-one support from a Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, and/or Dietitian.

All patients referred to the PRIME Prehabilitation Programme are invited to attend our education session, known as PRIME School.

PRIME School is a two-hour online session where you will hear from members of our team, as well as Anaesthetic colleagues, about how to prepare for surgery and support your recovery. There will also be opportunities to ask questions throughout the session.

Topics covered include:

  • The benefits of physical activity before, during, and after treatment.
  • Managing fatigue.
  • Managing stress and anxiety.
  • Improving sleep quality.
  • Healthy eating before surgery.
  • Meet the Anaesthetist.

Our team

Physiotherapy

Our Physiotherapists lead the exercise component of prehabilitation and rehabilitation, providing advice and guidance on physical activity and exercise before and after surgery. They will work with you to improve your fitness and confidence ahead of your operation and help you understand what to expect during your recovery.

Occupational Therapy

Our Occupational Therapist provides support and practical advice to help you prepare for surgery and manage the impact of your diagnosis and treatment. They can help you identify strategies to manage challenges such as fatigue, sleep difficulties, low mood, anxiety, and changes to your ability to carry out everyday activities.

Dietetics

Our Dietitian provides specialist advice to help optimise your nutritional health before surgery. They can support you with dietary concerns related to your cancer or its treatment, such as reduced appetite, weight loss, taste changes, or eating difficulties. They can also provide practical advice for you and your family or carers on food choices, portion sizes, and meal planning to help maintain good nutrition throughout treatment and recovery.

How are you referred to the team?

Your Consultant or Clinical Nurse Specialist will discuss Prehabilitation with you and refer you to the team if appropriate. Once we receive your referral we will contact you to arrange an initial appointment.