Early Mobilisation

Early mobilisation is associated with better functional recovery, improved long-term outcomes, shorter hospital stays and lower healthcare costs. Ambulation 6 hours after PELD with a lumbar brace has been associated with better short-term recovery and earlier return to daily activities. Passive transfer, repositioning, or staff-performed movement without patient effort does not qualify as early mobilisation. Early mobilisation after abdominal surgery consists of active ambulation or other out-of-bed physical activity started within the first 24 hours after surgery. Early mobilisation requires active patient participation rather than purely passive movement by staff. The first 24 hours after surgery is the dominant timeframe used to define early mobilisation. Successful ambulation requires independent transfer from bed and walking about 2 metres to a chair without physical assistance. The trial's primary outcome is successful ambulation 6 hours after UBE surgery. Early mobilisation is central to ERAS pathways for spine surgery. Out-of-bed activity is one defining attribute of early mobilisation.