Effect of a monitored exercise protocol in cerebral and hepatic hemodynamics in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension

Background: Physical exercise (PE) has been proven to be beneficial in patients with cirrhosis; effects in cognitive function and cerebral hemodynamics, are yet to be explored.

Aim: To evaluate the effects of a PE program (LFN-exercise protocol) in hepatic/cerebral hemodynamics.

Methods: Randomized open clinical trial in patients with cirrhosis; Control: Diet(n = 13),Intervention: Diet + exercise(n = 14) for 12 weeks. Patients received an educational session, mental exercises (printed book and sudoku), and high-protein diet. Exercise intervention consisted of walking 4 times/week with an intensity rated between 12 and 14 on the Borg scale, monitored through bracelet accelerometers. Patients received weekly text messages to encourage adherence and had monthly in-person visits.

Results: Patients were mainly Child-Pugh A(88.9 %), median MELD 8(8-10), mean age 53±8 years. In the exercise group the number of steps increased from 9667±3008 to 11,931±4463 (p = 0.002), vs 8004±3224 to 8903±3504 (p = 0.053) in controls. Exercise decreased HVPG from 11(8-14) to 8(6-11)mmHg (p = 0.032) vs no change in the control group from 14(12-16) to 15(11-17)mmHg (p = 0.959). Intervention group showed better cerebral hemodynamics, cognitive function, nutritional status and quality of life after the intervention. Adherence was >90 %, with no adverse events.

Conclusion: The LFN-exercise protocol improves portal hypertension, cerebral hemodynamics and cognitive function, as well as nutritional status and quality of life.

Gov number: NCT03932552.