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

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

Not applicable Interventional Unidade Local de Saúde de Coimbra, EPE · NCT06960304

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment128 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUnidade Local de Saúde de Coimbra, EPE Academic / other
Locations1 site (Coimbra, Coimbra District)
Trial IDNCT06960304 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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

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

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 performed: 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.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Coimbra, Coimbra District

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Chronic Kidney Disease Requiring Hemodialysisphysical exercisechronic kidney diseasehemodialysisfistula maturation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.