LIFT + REAP for Frailty in Liver Transplant Candidates
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Frailty is a significant problem in patients undergoing liver transplant and is associated with poor outcomes and survival. Hence, optimizing physical fitness and counteracting frailty is important. However, many interventions are very resource intensive and therefore not feasible. In this study, the investigators aim to test the effectiveness of a newly designed intervention to improve frailty in liver transplant candidates. The "LIver FrailTy" intervention (LIFT) will consist of an evaluation by a physical therapist, an individualized home exercise prescription (HEP), exercise tracking using a smart phone application, daily text reminders to exercise and recurrent telephone check-ins. The investigators also aim to perform "Realistic Effort Action Planning" (REAP), which is a form of personality-informed motivational interviewing, in a subset of patients to determine if this enhances the LIFT intervention.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What data supports the effectiveness of the LIFT + REAP treatment for frailty in liver transplant candidates?
Research suggests that addressing frailty in liver transplant candidates through structured exercise programs and multidisciplinary approaches can improve outcomes. Exercise training has been shown to be effective for patients with liver disease, and using standardized protocols to address frailty can enhance patient safety and transplant success.12345
Is the LIFT + REAP treatment safe for liver transplant candidates?
How is the LIFT treatment different from other treatments for frailty in liver transplant candidates?
The LIFT treatment is unique because it combines a structured exercise program with a multidisciplinary approach to address frailty in liver transplant candidates, focusing on improving physical fitness and overcoming barriers through new technology, unlike standard treatments that may not be as comprehensive.12358
Research Team
Daniela P Ladner, MD
Principal Investigator
Northwestern University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults with liver cirrhosis who are being considered for a liver transplant and have access to a smartphone. It includes those with cognitive impairments from hepatic encephalopathy, but excludes anyone needing outpatient physical therapy or unable to consent.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo the LIFT intervention, which includes PT evaluation, an individualized home exercise prescription, daily text reminders, and weekly telephone check-ins. A subset will also receive REAP motivational interviewing.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for frailty, clinical outcomes, and quality of life every month to every three months.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- LIver FrailTy Intervention (LIFT)
- Realistic Effort Action Planning Intervention (REAP)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Northwestern University
Lead Sponsor