Early mobilization versus bed rest for deep vein thrombosis

Aiming to prevent thromboembolic events, bed rest was historically considered in the management of patient with deep vein thrombosis. Nevertheless early ambulation could have beneficial effects. Searching in Epistemonikos database, which is maintained by screening 30 databases, we identified seven systematic reviews including 10 randomized trials answering this question. We combined the evidence using meta-analysis and generated a summary of findings table following the GRADE approach. We concluded early ambulation is probably effective in reducing deep vein thrombosis progression and improving limb pain, and might not increase the risk of thromboembolism.