Recovery from Emergency Laparotomy Surgery (RELAYS)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding recovery and return to baseline physical function following emergency laparotomy: an observational prospective mixed methods scoping and feasibility study
IRAS ID
353869
Contact name
Todd Leckie
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
Background
In the UK around 28,000 people each year have emergency bowel surgery. Causes include cancer and infection. Recovery can be very challenging. In non-emergency surgery we know physically active people recover faster and early mobilisation reduces complications. However, potential benefits of early mobility following emergency surgery, have been under-investigated. Early research suggests it is safe, even though the patients have been very unwell. It can, however, be difficult to get enough support from busy ward teams to encourage this.There is much to learn from individual recovery journeys. Gaining a better understanding of recovery after emergency surgery we hope can help us tailor individualised healthcare in the future.
Aims
First we will collect information on physical activity and quality of life before and after surgery. Second we will explore barriers and enablers to physical activity after surgery.
How we will do this
This study will recruit around 120 people after they have undergone emergency bowel surgery, from four hospitals. They will be asked to complete short surveys soon after surgery and 3 and 12 months after discharge (by phone/email/post or in person). A sample of patients and staff will be later invited to focus groups.
What we hope to find out
The study will increase understanding of the patient journey following emergency surgery. Physical activity levels prior to surgery are likely to vary widely and this will influence recovery and the support they need. The information will help us plan a future study to assess the best way to help individuals recover after surgery.
How we will use this information
Recovery from surgery can involve a lengthy stay in hospital. If patients can regain physical function earlier using a tailored intervention, this may result in quicker recovery. This would benefit the individual and the wider health service.REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Bradford Leeds Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/YH/0114
Date of REC Opinion
3 Jun 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion