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New trial reduces risk of surgery
22 May 2006
The first results of a new trial, which assesses patients at high risk of heart and lung problems using an exercise test before surgery, has revealed fewer patients suffering complications after their operation.
Bupa Health Insurance is funding the treatment of Bupa members in a year-long trial at The London Clinic to establish the benefits of carrying out a test, known as the Cardio-Pulmonary Exercise Test (CPX), on all high-risk patients. The test is used to predict how well a patient’s heart and lungs can cope with the increased stress experienced after surgery.
Without CPX testing, and the indicated additional care before and during surgery, around 10 percent of these high-risk patients return to intensive care unexpectedly after their operation, for an average of four additional days. In the initial CPX study, this number was reduced to zero.
CPX testing indicates which patients would clearly benefit from additional care. This can include fluid therapy and preventive drug treatment, with increased monitoring before and after theatre. CPX may also reduce the cost of healthcare, as every additional day in intensive care costs at least £1,500.
Dr John Goldstone, clinical director of intensive care medicine at The London Clinic, commented on the findings: “These first results are extremely encouraging. By testing high-risk patients with CPX we are able to significantly reduce complications and even reduce mortality from essential surgery.”
The trial has been concluded and Bupa Health Insurance are reviewing the outcome data from the trial.
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