%0 Journal Article %T Fall risk and function in older women after gynecologic surgery %J Archives of gerontology and geriatrics %D 2017 %A Miller, Karen L. %A Richter, Holly E. %A Graybill, Charles S. %A Neumayer, Leigh A. %V 73 %N %P 37-42 %X 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.

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.

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.

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.

Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Language: en

%G en %I Elsevier Publishing %@ 0167-4943 %U http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.archger.2017.07.006