Sarcopenia in Children Post Liver Transplant: Development of a Home‐Based Video Program to Support Muscle Strength and Function—A Pre–Post Controlled Pilot Study

Abstract

ABSTRACTIntroductionSarcopenia is common in children after liver transplantation (LTx). Resistance training (RT) may be effective in combating sarcopenia.ObjectivesThe purpose of the study was to test the feasibility and impact of a 12‐week RT program on skeletal muscle mass (SMM), muscle strength, physical performance (PP), and child–parent perspectives about RT.MethodsChildren (6–18 years) post‐LTx and healthy controls (HC) underwent progressive RT using resistance bands. SMM and adipose tissue (MRI: abdomen and thigh), muscle strength (handgrip, push‐ups, sit‐to‐stand), and PP (6‐minute walk test [6MWT], timed‐up‐and‐down‐stair test [TUDS]) were measured before and after 12‐weeks of RT.ResultsTen children post‐LTx (11.9 ± 3.5 years) and 13 HC (11.7 ± 3.9 years) participated. LTx children significantly increased abdominal SM‐index (+4.6% LTx vs. a −2.7% HC; p = 0.01) and decreased visceral adipose tissue‐index (−18% LTx vs. −0.8% HC; p = 0.04) compared to HC. No thigh SMI changes were noted. Significant increases in 6MWT distance (LTx; p = 0.04), number of push‐ups (p = 0.04), and greater reduction times for TUDS (−10.6% vs. +1.7%; p = 0.05) occurred after 12 weeks. Higher thigh muscle‐fat content was associated with worse physical performance. These results were impacted by adherence (≥75% vs. <75%) and family engagement.ConclusionsRT in children post‐LTx is feasible and effective. RT in children post‐LTx may alleviate adverse outcomes associated with sarcopenia.