Pre-operative IMT is feasible in patients with oesophageal carcinoma and significantly improves respiratory muscle function. This, however, did not result in a reduction of post-operative pneumonia in patients undergoing oesophagectomy.

In the first week after discharge from the ICU, the majority of the patients had substantial functional disabilities in activities of daily living. These disabilities were more severe in patients who experienced ventilation for a longer period of time. There is a need for prospective studies focusing on functional recovery to support informed decision-making concerning the care of critically ill patients after ICU discharge.