Does the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test Predict the Development of a Hospital Acquired Pneumonia in Patients Undergoing Elective Oesophagectomy: A Prospective Cohort Study

All patients were reviewed by a physiotherapist during their pre-assessment clinic one week prior to surgery to complete an incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT). The ISWT was completed according to a standardised protocol and involved patients walking around 2 cones set up 9 metres apart. Patients were asked to cover the distance between the cones in time to auditory cues. Oxygen levels and heart rate were recorded during the assessment with the use of a portable pulse oximeter. The test was stopped when patients could no longer keep pace with the auditory cues or were too breathless to continue. The total distance mobilised was recorded.