Remote monitoring speeds recovery, lowers complications after cancer surgery

Editor's Note

Remote perioperative monitoring (RPM) accelerates recovery and reduces complications following major cancer surgery, according to a randomized trial published on August 28 by npj Digital Medicine and co-authored by researchers at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

The study enrolled 293 patients undergoing major abdominal or pelvic procedures for gastrointestinal, genitourinary, or gynecologic cancers. Participants in the RPM group wore wristband accelerometers and reported symptoms through a mobile app before surgery and after discharge. If activity or symptom data crossed preset thresholds, triage nurses reached out proactively. In contrast, the control group received only automated messages from their care teams.

Results showed RPM patients achieved a 6% higher functional recovery rate by day 14 post-surgery (p=0.036) and experienced fewer major complications (p=0.004). They also reported better symptom management and less disruption to daily activities. Lead investigator Tracy Crane, PhD, RDN, co-leader of the Cancer Control Program at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, emphasized the first 2 weeks after discharge are especially critical and RPM helps bridge the gap between hospital and home by identifying problems early.

According to the article, the intervention proved feasible across diverse populations, including English and Spanish speakers, most of whom used their own devices. Researchers highlighted the importance of digital biomarkers and patient-reported outcomes as scalable tools for postoperative care. Dr Crane said while technology drives data collection, “it’s the human response to these data that makes the difference.”

The work builds on Dr Crane’s broader digital health initiatives, including the My Wellness Research platform, which integrates patient-generated data from wearables, nutrition, exercise, and clinical information to support personalized oncology care. Her team continues to investigate digital and lifestyle interventions across multiple cancer populations, from nutrition-focused ovarian cancer studies to survivorship programs designed to reduce recurrence risk through diet and physical activity.