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Updated: Oct 7, 2025

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Published on: August 8, 2025
Impact of early ambulation on functionality in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery
André Luiz Lisboa Cordeiro1,2, Jaildes Reis Dos Reis1, Huendy Borges Da Cruz1
1Centro Universitário Nobre, Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil.
Early ambulation after cardiac valve surgery helps maintain patient functionality. Mobilizing patients in the ICU reduces the decline in functional independence compared to those who remain sedentary.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Physiotherapy
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Cardiac surgery aims to improve patient quality of life.
- Early physiotherapy and mobilization are crucial for functional recovery post-cardiac surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of early ambulation on functional outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac valve replacement.
- Evaluating the effectiveness of early mobilization in preserving patient functionality.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study involving patients undergoing cardiac valve replacement.
- Functionality assessed preoperatively and post-discharge using Functional Independence Measurement (FIM) and Perme Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Mobility Score.
- Patients divided into walking (WG) and non-walking (NWG) groups post-ICU discharge.
Main Results:
- 170 patients evaluated (110 male, mean age 48±2 years).
- No significant difference in Perme Score decrease between WG and NWG (P=0.34).
- Significantly less FIM score decrease in the WG (27±3) compared to NWG (36±5) (P<0.001).
Conclusions:
- Early mobilization, including ambulation, in the ICU setting leads to less functional decline post-cardiac valve replacement surgery.
- Functional Independence Measurement (FIM) data supports early ambulation as beneficial for preserving patient functionality after valve replacement.
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