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Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 and up

Structured exercise program to improve arteriovenous fistula maturation for hemodialysis in chronic kidney disease patients

Official title: Effect of a Structured Physical Exercise Program on Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation for Hemodialysis in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

Run by Unidade Local de Saúde de Coimbra, EPE · NCT06960304 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing whether a special exercise program can help improve the success of arteriovenous fistulas in patients with chronic kidney disease who are getting ready for hemodialysis.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment128 (estimated)
SponsorUnidade Local de Saúde de Coimbra, EPE
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Coimbra, Coimbra District)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJanuary 16, 2025
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2027
Study endsDecember 31, 2028
Registry record updatedJuly 8, 2026
Trial IDNCT06960304 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with an arteriovenous fistula in the upper limb and no cognitive decline.

Probably not a fit

Patients with a history of previous dysfunctional AVFs, significant musculoskeletal conditions, or neurological issues may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the impact of a structured physical exercise program on the maturation of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) in patients with chronic kidney disease preparing for hemodialysis. Given that a significant percentage of AVFs fail to mature properly, the research aims to determine if targeted exercises can enhance vascular adaptation and improve fistula function. Participants will engage in a specific exercise regimen focused on the arm with the AVF, with the goal of promoting better outcomes for hemodialysis access. The study seeks to establish guidelines for the most effective exercise protocols to support AVF maturation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the maturation rates of arteriovenous fistulas, leading to more effective hemodialysis treatment for patients.

How similar studies have gone: While there is growing interest in the role of exercise for AVF maturation, this specific structured approach is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria 
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥ 18 years
* AVF in the upper limb
* No cognitive decline and ability to follow instructions

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of previous dysfunctional ipsilateral AVF
* History of injury/condition causing pain or loss of function in the AVF limb
* Musculoskeletal conditions/osteoarticular pathology (e.g., myopathy, rheumatoid arthritis)
* Neurological conditions/cardiovascular events (e.g., stroke, peripheral neuropathy

Where it's running

  • Unidade Local de Saude de Coimbra
    Coimbra, Coimbra District, Portugal     Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
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Chronic Kidney Disease Requiring Hemodialysis 8Unidade Local de Saúde de Coimbra, EPE 3
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.