Impact of an early, graduated mobilization program on recovery and postoperative outcomes after cardiac revascularization with extracorporeal circulation

Why clinicians should know about it

• Picked for Surgery (top studies of the week, 2 August 2026): Early mobilization improves pulmonary function after CABG

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of an early, graduated mobilization program on functional recovery (primary endpoint: postoperative day-5 forced vital capacity [FVC]; secondary endpoints: activities of daily living [ADL] scores, handgrip strength, Short Physical Performance Battery [SPPB] scores, postoperative pulmonary complications [PPCs], and postoperative length of stay) in patients undergoing on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). METHODS: Between March to September 2025, 92 patients underwent on-pump CABG; after screening, 80 consecutive eligible patients (sample size calculated based on PPC incidence, n = 42 per group before attrition adjustment) were randomized 1:1 using a random number table with allocation concealment to a control group (n = 40) or an intervention group (n = 40). RESULTS: On postoperative day 5, the intervention group demonstrated significantly better FVC, ADL scores, handgrip strength, and SPPB scores (all P < 0.05). PPC incidence was markedly lower (10% vs. 62.5%, P < 0.0001), and postoperative length of stay was shorter (7.13 ± 2.36 vs. 9.18 ± 2.66 days, P = 0.0006). CONCLUSION: The early graduated mobilization program was safe, feasible, and associated with improved short-term functional recovery, reduced PPCs, and shorter postoperative hospital stay after on-pump CABG. Larger multicenter studies with longer follow-up are required to confirm long-term safety and effectiveness.

Abstract as published, via PubMed.