@article{ref1,
title="Fall risk and function in older women after gynecologic surgery",
journal="Archives of gerontology and geriatrics",
year="2017",
author="Miller, Karen L. and Richter, Holly E. and Graybill, Charles S. and Neumayer, Leigh A.",
volume="73",
number="",
pages="37-42",
abstract="PURPOSE OF STUDY: To examine change in balance-related fall risk and daily functional abilities in the first 2 post-operative weeks and up to 6 weeks after gynecologic surgery. <br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective cohort study in gynecologic surgery patients age 65 and older. Balance confidence (Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale) and functional status (basic and instrumental activities of daily living) were recorded pre- and post-operatively daily for 1 week and twice the second week. Physical performance balance and functional mobility were measured pre- and 1 week post-operatively using the Tinetti Fall Risk Scale, Timed Up and Go, and 6-Minute Walk test. Measures were repeated 6 weeks after surgery. Non-parametric tests for paired data were used comparing scores baseline to post-operative (POD) 7 and to POD 42. <br><br>RESULTS: Median age was 72 years (range 65-88). Fall risk was elevated during the first 2 post-operative weeks, greatest on the median discharge day, POD 2 (p<0.01). Balance performance and functional mobility at 1 week were significantly lower than baseline (p<0.01). Functional abilities declined, including new dependence in medication management at home in 22% of these independent and cognitively intact women. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: After gynecologic surgery, older women's fall risk is highest on POD 2 and remains elevated from baseline for 2 weeks. Functional limitations in the early home recovery period include the anticipated (bathing, cooking, etc.) and some unanticipated (medication management) ones. This information may help with post-operative discharge planning.<br><br>Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0167-4943",
doi="10.1016/j.archger.2017.07.006",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.archger.2017.07.006"
}