Celena Scheede-Bergdahl Comments on Prehab Impact on Patient Recovery

The Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education's Dr. Celena Scheede-Bergdahl was interviewed by CBC for an article, "Prehab' before surgery speeds up patient recovery, review suggests" regarding how pre-op exercise, nutritional changes, and psychological support could reduce complications.  Dr. Scheede-Bergdahl commented she sees high rates of participation in prehab at Montreal General Hospital's surgery program. "We're capturing them in a teaching moment," Scheede-Bergdahl said. "Allowing them to … feel like they're doing something that can help their recovery and to help them through the surgical process, that really resonates with a lot of individuals." She said it's difficult to tease out what elements of prehab have the most profound effects. For example, if a patient is anxious, they may need support to stick with a program to be able to see the benefits of physical exercise and nutrition.