Progressive postresection program (pPRP) after pancreatic resection: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND: At the time of initial diagnosis, only 15–20 % of patients with pancreatic cancer present with a resectable disease. Patients with pancreatic cancer face a poor prognosis. Progression-free survival and overall survival rates are very limited, so it is important to develop concepts to improve the quality of life for their remaining lives. METHODS/DESIGN: The proposed trial is a randomized controlled intervention study. After pancreatic resection, the intervention group (cohort A, n = 30 patients) will take part in an intensified physiotherapy program consisting of endurance and muscle force exercises. The control group (cohort B, n = 30 patients) will take part in standard physiotherapy. Both groups will receive dietary counseling and, if necessary, substitution for endocrine/exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Quality of life will be evaluated using the Short Form-8 Health Survey and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30/QLQ-PAN26 questionnaires. DISCUSSION: The aim of this study is to investigate whether intensive physiotherapy improves the quality of life of patients after pancreatic resection. If the results for the intervention group are positive, a multicenter study should be performed with appropriate statistical power. The progressive postresection program includes a structured follow-up after pancreatic resection. In this study, all patients will undergo abdominal computed tomography for follow-up 6 and 12 months postoperatively. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00006786. Date of registration 1 October 2014.