NCT04630496 · Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Geriatric Thoracic Surgery Ambulation Challenge
What this study is about
This study is examining collecting data on steps walked (ambulation) per day by thoracic surgery patients over the age of 65 years-old before surgery.
View original scientific description
This study is examining collecting data on steps walked (ambulation) per day by thoracic surgery patients over the age of 65 years-old before surgery.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Fitbit
Electronic activity tracker
Primary outcome measures
Step Tracking Rate
Time frame: 1 week
Feasibility will be determined by the successful tracking of steps and keeping a diary of step-count for one-week duration. Completion of a minimum of 5/7 days will be considered as a success
Diary of Steps Rate
Time frame: 1 week
Feasibility will be determined by the successful tracking of steps and keeping a diary of step-count for one-week duration. We will consider completion of a minimum of 5/7 days as a success.
Return Rate
Time frame: 1 week
If 90% of trackers are returned, it will be considered a successful return.
Data Retrieval Rate
Time frame: 1 week
assess extraction of the data from the mobility upon return. Success will be considered if 90% of data is retrievable
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patients Aged ≥ 65 years
- Who are preparing to undergo thoracic surgery at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH)
Exclusion criteria
- Patients who are completely non-ambulatory (i.e. wheelchair-bound-patients) \
- Those who lack capacity to consent due to cognitive disease.
- Patient for which surgery is felt to be more urgent and therefore performed earlier then our required timeframe for intervention.
- Patients with cardiac disease or angina for which formal cardiac testing is required for clearance.
- Our exclusion criteria do not include patients with gait disturbances or those who require assistance devices for ambulation.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 13, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations