Preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing

Abstract

This chapter discusses how the results of a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) can be used for preoperative surgical planning. A low preoperative maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) is associated with a poor outcome. The lower the VO2max, the worse the prognosis. Use of the anaerobic threshold is less reliable. The CPET may identify clinical problems which can be optimized prior to surgery. Pre-habilitation can improve the chances of a good outcome from surgery.