Benefits of early mobilization in patients with deep venous thrombosis: a scope review

Abstract

Objective: Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a blood flow obstruction caused by the formation of a thrombus in deep system veins, with higher prevalence in lower limbs. Bed restriction has been indicated in patients with DVT in order to avoid pulmonary embolism caused by displacement of the thrombus. However, immobility has recently been considered a risk factor for DVT, not only due to blood flow stasis, but also by secondary complications as muscle atrophy and weakness. Objective was to review the possible benefits of early mobilization in patients with DVT in the intensive care unit. Methods: A scope review of literature was conducted. The following keywords were used: deep venous thrombosis, early mobilization and physical therapy. The search was made on Pubmed and Scielo databases. Results: 20 studies were found and 7 articles were included in the review using the exclusion criteria. Conclusion: Early mobilization association with anticoagulation and compression was described as essential in the treatment of DVT, reducing deleterious effects of immobility, pain, edema, and promoting quality of life improvement.

Keywords

• deep venous thrombosis
• early mobilization
• physical therapy