Physical activity and aerobic fitness in children after liver transplantation

To determine physical activity (PA), aerobic fitness, muscle strength, health‐related quality of life (HRQOL), fatigue, and participation in children after liver transplantation. Children, 6‐12 years, at least one year after liver transplantation, participated in this cross‐sectional study. Measurements: Time spent in moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) was measured using an accelerometer, and aerobic fitness (VO_{2 peak}) was measured by cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Muscle strength was measured by hand‐held dynamometry. Fatigue was measured using the multidimensional fatigue scale, and HRQOL with the Pediatric Quality of life Core scales and leisure activities was measured using the Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment. Outcomes (medians and interquartile range (IQR)) were compared to norm values. Twenty‐six children participated in this study (14 boys, age 9.7 years, IQR 7.7;11.4). Children spent 0.8 hours/d (IQR 0.6;1.1) on MVPA. One child met the recommendation of at least 1 hour of MVPA every day of the week. Aerobic fitness was similar to norms (VO_{2 peak} 1.4 _L/min, IQR 1.1;1.7, Z‐score ?0.3). Z‐scores of muscle strength ranged between ?1.4 and ?0.4 and HRQOL and fatigue between ?2.3 and ?0.4. Participation was similar to published norms (Z‐scores between ?0.6 and 0.6). Young children after liver transplantation have similar MVPA patterns and aerobic fitness compared to published norms. Despite lower HRQOL, more fatigue, and less muscle strength, these children have similar participation in daily activities. Although children do well, it remains important to stimulate PA in children after liver transplantation in the context of long‐term management.