Electrophysiological stimulation is associated with improved lower-extremity venous hemodynamics and postoperative recovery following laparoscopic nephrectomy.

BACKGROUND: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common and potentially serious complication following laparoscopic nephrectomy. Conventional preventive measures are limited by bleeding risk and poor compliance. Electrophysiological stimulation therapy has emerged as a non-invasive approach to improve venous circulation, but its perioperative efficacy remains unclear. METHODS: This prospective, non-randomized controlled study included 108 patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy. Patients were allocated to a control group (n = 57) receiving routine VTE prophylaxis or an observation group (n = 51) receiving additional electrophysiological stimulation therapy. Venous blood flow velocity, Caprini score, D-dimer levels, and clinical recovery indicators were assessed preoperatively (T0) and before the first ambulation (T1). Change values (Δ = T1-T0) were analyzed. Multivariate regression and correlation analyses were performed. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the observation group showed significantly higher postoperative venous blood flow velocities in the popliteal, posterior tibial, and fibular veins (all P < 0.05). Δ analysis demonstrated greater improvements in venous hemodynamics (all P < 0.05). Hospital stay (6.86 ± 2.39 vs. 7.98 ± 2.44 days, P = 0.018) and bed rest duration were significantly reduced. Regression analysis identified electrophysiological therapy (β = -0.98, P = 0.018) and improved venous flow (β = -0.42, P = 0.006) as independent predictors of shorter hospitalization. Venous flow improvement was moderately negatively correlated with hospital stay (r = -0.36 to -0.41). CONCLUSION: Electrophysiological stimulation therapy was associated with improved venous hemodynamics and postoperative recovery following laparoscopic nephrectomy and may serve as a useful adjunct to routine perioperative thromboprophylaxis.