Multi-Organ Transplant Program

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is an integral component to the rehabilitation of transplant patients, both before and after surgery. Patients are routinely referred to physiotherapy before and after transplant to assess and treat chest and mobility status. Patients can be seen while in hospital or as an outpatient. All patients require a physician’s referral to be followed by physiotherapy.

Prior to being put on the waiting list, a patient may be seen by the physiotherapist to assess his or her current physical status and identify problems that may cause an added risk to transplant. While on the waiting list, patients in the hospital are seen daily (Monday through Friday) for an exercise program so that their physical condition can be maximized, thereby helping to minimize surgical risk when the transplant occurs. All heart and liver transplant recipients are followed by physiotherapy after transplant and mobility progressed as appropriate.

In non-complicated cases, patients are seen the day after surgery, helped to sit on the edge of their bed and deep breathing exercises are started. This progresses to sitting in a chair the next day and walking by day three. Most patients start an exercise program by day five. On discharge from the hospital, recipients continue to come into the hospital so their exercise program can progress. Exercise programs are tailored to the individual patient and involve both aerobic and resistance training. Other exercises may be added at the discretion of the physiotherapist.

The transplant exercise gym is located across from the Transplant Unit and close to the Outpatient Clinic. Generously supported by a donation from Dr. William Kostuk, it is well equipped with free weights, exercise bikes and a treadmill. The exercise programs are supervised and progressed by the transplant physiotherapist and kinesiologist.