Patient Overview
The patient was admitted with a severe small intestine blockage requiring emergency surgery to remove the obstruction, repair the intestines, and place a wound vacuum.
A follow-up procedure was performed to reconnect the small intestine and close the abdominal wound. Recovery was complicated by infection and the development of abnormal intestine-to-skin connections, requiring an additional surgical intervention and prolonged advanced wound care.
The patient’s hospital stay extended from December 10, 2023, to February 17, 2024 (68 days).
Mobility Intervention
Despite initial postoperative progress, the patient’s functional mobility declined following surgical complications and prolonged bed rest.
On hospital day 50, Verticalization Therapy® was initiated using The Catalyst® as part of the patient’s rehabilitation program.
While in the upright position, the patient was able to perform functional activities, including personal hygiene tasks and incentive spirometry, allowing therapy to continue while supporting respiratory function and rebuilding activity tolerance.
Outcomes
Following the initiation of Verticalization Therapy®, the patient’s mobility steadily improved.
The patient’s Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC) mobility score had declined significantly following postoperative complications. After Verticalization Therapy® was introduced on hospital day 50, the patient’s mobility progressively improved, returning to approximately the same functional level achieved at admission.
As illustrated below, the patient’s mobility trajectory improved following the initiation of Verticalization Therapy®, supporting recovery after a prolonged hospitalization and contributing to a successful discharge home on hospital day 68.
Clinical Considerations
Patients recovering from complex abdominal surgery often experience prolonged immobility due to repeated surgical procedures, infection, and advanced wound care needs, increasing the risk of deconditioning and delayed functional recovery.
This case highlights how Verticalization Therapy® using The Catalyst® may be incorporated into a comprehensive mobility program to safely reintroduce upright positioning, support functional activity, and help patients regain mobility following significant medical setbacks.