Effects of hybrid-based pulmonary rehabilitation on exercise capacity and quality of life in individuals with post-tubercular sequelae.

Post tubercular sequelae lead to persistent respiratory symptoms and reduced functional capacity, significantly impacting quality of life. While traditional center-based pulmonary rehabilitation (PR)  has demonstrated benefits in other chronic respiratory conditions-such as COPD, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, asthma with improvements in symptoms, exercise capacity, quality of life, these programs are underutilized due to barriers such as distance from rehabilitation centers, travel difficulties, cost, and time constraints. Hybrid based PR, which combines supervised in-center based sessions and tele-rehabilitation, offers a promising alternative to potentially overcome these limitations and improve patient engagement. There is a need to explore whether hybrid PR models can achieve comparable improvements in dyspnea, exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with post tubercular sequelae patients. A significant research gap exists regarding the application and validation of hybrid PR in this population. Evidence specifically supporting the effectiveness and optimal implementation of PR-particularly hybrid based models- in the context of post-tubercular sequelae remains limited. This research gap necessitates investigation into the feasibility and efficacy of hybrid PR to address the unique needs of individuals with Post-tubercular sequelae, considering the heterogeneity of the condition and the need for tailored interventions. Ultimately, evidence-based research in this area is crucial to develop accessible and effective rehabilitation strategies that can improve long-term outcomes and enhance the quality of life for TB survivors living with the sequelae of the disease.