This randomized controlled trial was conducted among patients diagnosed with cervical cancer and scheduled to undergo radical hysterectomy. A total of 34 participants were recruited using a simple random sampling technique after obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Participants were screened based on predefined selection criteria to ensure safety, reliability of outcome measures and avoidance of confounding medical conditions. Eligible patients were informed in detail about the study, and written informed consent was obtained prior to enrollment. Participants were randomly allocated into two equal groups (n = 17 each) using the lottery method, with allocation concealment maintained to minimize selection bias. Baseline assessments were carried out four weeks prior to surgery and included evaluation of pelvic floor muscle strength using the Brink score, functional status using the Karnofsky Performance Scale and anticipated duration of hospital stay as an indicator of recovery efficiency. The intervention group underwent a structured prehabilitation exercise program for four weeks before surgery, consisting of three supervised daily sessions totaling 60 minutes. The program included aerobic training, targeted pelvic floor muscle strengthening and upper and lower limb resistance training, with exercise intensity and progression individualized according to the participant's functional capacity. The control group received a generalized standard exercise protocol comprising free exercises, breathing exercises and walking, delivered with similar session duration but without structured resistance or pelvic floor-specific training. Postoperatively, both groups received a standardized rehabilitation program for two weeks, including breathing exercises, pelvic floor strengthening and core stabilization exercises to promote early mobilization and prevent complications. Post-intervention assessments were conducted after two weeks to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. The study utilized basic exercise and assessment equipment, including resistance bands, weight cuffs, dumbbells, a Swiss ball, a couch and a stopwatch.
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Pelvic floor muscle strength using the Brink score
Timeframe: baseline at four weeks prior surgery and post test assessment two week after surgery
Functional performance using the Karnofsky Performance Scale
Timeframe: baseline at four weeks prior surgery and post test assessment two week after surgery
Recovery efficiency through hospital stay duration
Timeframe: baseline at four weeks prior surgery and post test assessment two week after surgery