For patients living with Chronic Kidney Disease who are preparing to start hemodialysis, having a well-functioning arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is essential. Although the AVF is considered the best type of vascular access, its maturation process does not always go as expected-studies show that in 28% to 53% of cases, the fistula does not mature properly, making effective dialysis more difficult. There is growing interest in using physical exercise as a way to support AVF maturation. International guidelines even recommend arm exercises for this purpose. However, there is still no clear agreement on what type of exercise, how often, or how intense it should be. This study aims to evaluate whether a structured exercise program focused on the AVF arm can help improve the fistula's development and overall function.
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Evaluation of AVF maturation using clinical and ultrasound criteria: Diameter of the drainage vein (mm)
Timeframe: 8 weeks
Evaluation of AVF maturation using clinical and ultrasound criteria: Venous wall thickness (mm)
Timeframe: 8 weeks
Evaluation of AVF maturation using clinical and ultrasound criteria: Blood velocity (cm/sec)
Timeframe: 8 weeks
Evaluation of AVF maturation using clinical and ultrasound criteria: Blood flow volume in the humeral artery (mL/min)
Timeframe: 8 weeks
Ricardo A. S. Ferreira, Bachelor's degree in Nursing