Authors: Nazim Isma Ellinor Johanssson Anna Björk Ola Björgell Fredrik Robertson Ingrid Mattiasson Anders Gottsäter Bengt Lindblad
Publish Date: 2006/12/22
Volume: 23, Issue: 1, Pages: 25-30
Abstract
From September 2001 to March 2004 of 381 patients 72 eligible patients were included and with a mean age 54 ± 14 years 39 52 men with deep vein thrombosis DVT proven with phlebography were randomized to an exercise group n = 36 receiving routine anticoagulation class II compression stockings and additionally supervised exercise and a control group n = 36 receiving the same therapy but no exercise Patients were followedup during six months Phlebography was scored initially and at sixmonthsThere were at inclusion no differences between the two groups regarding age body weight body mass index BMI calf circumference of the affected leg and overall quality of life estimated by visual analog scale VASscale In both groups there were significant reductions regarding calf circumference in the affected leg compared to the inclusion time both at onemonth P = 00012 and six month P = 00002 followup The degree of recanalization of the affected venous segments was high and did not differ between groups There were no recurrent DVT or pulmonary emboli or other treatment complications in any individual during the sixmonth followup periodEarly exercise did not acutely exacerbate the risk of complications in patients with DVT No benefits of early exercise were seen regarding the degree of recanalization of the thrombi or faster resolution of pain or swelling Nevertheless our study shows that early exercise/ambulation is safe in combination with anticoagulation and compression stockings for the majority of patients with DVT
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