Programme for lung surgery patients at Basildon Hospital

The initiative based at Basildon Hospital's Essex Cardiothoracic Centre supports patients to begin rehabilitation on the same day as their surgery.

Previously, some thoracic surgery patients could remain in bed for two days following their operation.

Led by highly specialist cardiothoracic physiotherapist Elliott Pattison, the team introduced breathing, shoulder and mobility exercises much earlier in the recovery process.

Some patients now begin activities within an hour of leaving theatre and, depending on their condition, can even walk back to the ward from recovery.

Elliott said: "One of the most rewarding parts of our job is seeing patients progress through their recovery and return home sooner than they expected.

Recovery - Essex Cardiothoracic therapy team members, Kira Neal, Elliot Pattison and Caitlin Knight (Image: Mid and South Essex NHS Trust)

"We know lung surgery can be daunting, so being able to introduce changes that help patients recover more quickly and reduce the risk of complications is something we're really proud of.

"It's a privilege to play a part in helping people get back to their everyday lives."

The programme has produced significant results among 100 patients monitored over six months.

Those beginning rehabilitation earlier spent an average of more than one day less in hospital.

Respiratory complications also fell by more than three per cent, while intensive care admissions dropped from eight patients to two.

Patients additionally reported lower levels of pain.

The approach was developed after the physiotherapy team examined research into the benefits of getting patients moving as quickly as possible following surgery.

They worked with colleagues across the multidisciplinary team to introduce the changes, which have now become standard practice for thoracic surgery patients.

Results from the initiative have also been shared at regional and national cardiothoracic conferences.

Kira Neal, clinical specialist physiotherapist and integrated therapy lead, added: “Therapists are good at looking at the whole patient and bringing teams together to improve services.

“We're not afraid to try new things if we believe they're the right thing for patients.”