IMPACT OF EARLY AMBULATION ON FUNCTIONALITY IN PATIENTS SUBMITTED TO
VALVE REPLACEMENT
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the impact of early ambulation on the
functionality of patients undergoing cardiac valve replacement surgery.
Methods: Prospective cohort study in patients undergoing cardiac valve
replacement surgery. Patients had their functionality assessed
preoperatively using the Functional Independence Measurement (FIM) and
Perme Intensive Care Unit Mobility Score scales. At ICU discharge, they
were divided into two groups: walking group (WG) and, non-walking group
(NWG). At discharge, the two functional scales were reapplied in these
patients. Results: 170 patients were evaluated, 110 (65%) male, with a
mean age of 48 ± 2 years. In relation to Perme Score, the WG had a
decrease of 11 ± 2 and in the NWG the decrease was 13 ± 2 (p=0.34).
Regarding FIM, those who walked had a decrease of 27 ± 3 against those
who did not walk, which reduced 36 ± 5, with a significance level of
p<0.001. Conclusion: Based in the FIM data found, patients
undergoing cardiac valve replacement surgery who underwent early
mobilization had less decrease of functionality compared to patients who
did not ambulate.