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Supervised exercise-based rehabilitation for people with intermittent claudication-Study protocol for a Danish
Sara Fredslund Hajdú1, Helle Bøgard1, Thomas Vedste Aagaard1,2
1The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Slagelse, Denmark.
Plos One
|January 13, 2025
Summary
Implementing supervised exercise and smoking cessation programs can improve quality of life for intermittent claudication patients. This study outlines the process for integrating these vital health initiatives into clinical practice in Denmark.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Public Health Implementation Science
Background:
- Intermittent claudication (IC) is a common symptom of peripheral artery disease, characterized by leg pain during exertion.
- Supervised exercise therapy (SET) and smoking cessation programs are proven to alleviate IC symptoms and enhance quality of life.
- Limited clinical implementation of these effective interventions hinders patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the protocol for implementing SET and smoking cessation programs for IC patients in a Danish region.
- To detail a collaborative approach involving municipalities and a university hospital.
Main Methods:
- Convergent mixed-methods prospective clinical cohort design.
- Framework for Adapting an existing intervention to a new context (ADAPT).
- Stakeholder engagement and ongoing evaluation using key performance indicators and relevant outcomes.
Main Results:
- Dissemination of performance indicators and outcomes through ongoing meetings and a database.
- Free availability of study information and materials.
- Project registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06299956).
Conclusions:
- This protocol outlines a structured approach to implementing evidence-based interventions for intermittent claudication.
- The collaborative and adaptive framework aims to facilitate successful integration into routine clinical practice.
- Effective implementation can improve patient-reported outcomes and reduce the need for surgical intervention.
