Effect of postoperative ankle pump exercises on the prevention of deep vein thrombosis and venous hemodynamics following lower limb orthopedic surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common and serious complication following lower limb orthopaedic surgery. Early ankle pump exercises may promote venous return, reduce limb swelling, and lower the incidence of postoperative DVT. However, the efficacy of such interventions remains inconsistently reported. The aim of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the effects of preoperative and postoperative ankle pump training on DVT incidence and venous haemodynamic parameters, such as maximum venous outflow (MVO) and maximum venous capacity (MVC).

Methods

A systematic Literature search was performed across multiple databases up to July 2025 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared ankle pump exercises with standard care in patients undergoing lower limb or

SUBMITTER: Liu X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12482818 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature