A study, led by researchers at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust and the University of Plymouth, is seeking to improve survival rates for patients following major surgery.

The Coronary Anatomy and Dynamic Exercise Test (CADET) study is investigating the effectiveness of different types of tests carried out prior to major surgery, to assess patient fitness and, therefore, the likelihood of a good post-surgery recovery.

Funded by both local charity Bowel Cancer West and the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland/National Institute of Academic Anaesthesia, the project is a world-first, due to its unique approach in combining assessments to give a fuller picture.