Evaluating a 12-Week Post-Operative Exercise Program Versus Standard Care to Improve Recovery and Fitness in Women Undergoing DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy for Breast Cancer

What this Trial Is About

This trial focuses on women undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer who are candidates for Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator DIEP flap reconstruction. Researchers are evaluating whether a structured post-operative exercise program improves physical fitness and recovery after this type of breast reconstruction, which is preferred for its cosmetic outcomes and suitability for patients who may need radiotherapy. The study also aims to assess how exercise affects quality of life, psychological health, and body image after surgery. Participants are randomly assigned to either a 12-week individualized exercise program or to receive standard post-operative care without a formal exercise plan. The exercise program follows ACSM oncology guidelines and includes aerobic, resistance, and flexibility training delivered in person or via Zoom. The program begins after surgery and is designed to improve strength and overall recovery compared to usual care. Throughout the study, participants are assessed at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months after surgery. Assessments include cardiorespiratory fitness, limb strength, body composition measures such as BMI, fat, muscle, and bone mass, and quality of life questionnaires. Researchers will also monitor post-operative complications, hospital stay length, adherence to the exercise program, psychological effects, and health economics. The total study duration extends up to one year postoperatively to evaluate long-term recovery.

The Effect of a Post-operative Exercise Programme Versus Standard Care on Physical Fitness of Patients With Breast Cancer Undergoing Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) Flap Reconstruction Surgery