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Neuromuscular electrical stimulation for thromboprophylaxis: A systematic review
S Hajibandeh1, S Hajibandeh2, G A Antoniou2
1Liverpool Vascular and Endovascular Service, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK shahab_hajibandeh@yahoo.com.
Phlebology
|January 9, 2015
Summary
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) boosts lower limb venous blood flow and is well-tolerated. However, current evidence does not support its use for preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE).
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Vascular Physiology
- Thromboprophylaxis
Background:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) poses a significant clinical challenge.
- Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is explored for its potential to enhance venous circulation.
- Understanding NMES's impact on blood flow and VTE risk is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effect of NMES on lower limb venous blood flow.
- To evaluate the role of NMES in thromboprophylaxis.
- To synthesize existing evidence on NMES for VTE prevention.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of randomized and non-randomized studies.
- Inclusion criteria focused on NMES, VTE incidence, venous blood flow, and tolerability.
- Analysis of 21 identified articles.
Main Results:
- NMES demonstrably increases venous blood flow.
- NMES exhibits acceptable tolerability, suggesting potential for good patient compliance.
- Ten comparative studies showed variable deep vein thrombosis (DVT) incidence between NMES and control groups, with no clear benefit.
- Significant heterogeneity existed across studies regarding patient populations, NMES protocols, VTE diagnosis, and blood flow measurement.
Conclusions:
- NMES effectively enhances venous blood flow and is well-tolerated.
- Current evidence is insufficient to support NMES for thromboprophylaxis.
- Further high-quality randomized controlled trials are necessary to clarify the clinical utility of NMES in VTE prevention.
