In peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD), arterial compliance of central and peripheral arteries has been reported to be reduced. The aim of this prospective study was to determine the effect of a 6-week rehabilitation training program on artery elasticity in 16 patients with PAOD (mean age 61±11 years, 14 men, 2 women).

Large (C1) and small artery (C2) elasticity indices were measured using a tonometer of the type HDI/Pulse wave CR-2000. Maximal walking distance (MWD) on the treadmill, ankle brachial index on the limiting leg (ABI), peak oxygen consumption (VO2) and artery elasticity indices were recorded before and after the 6 week. Patients performed a supervised aerobic training intervention five days per week.

After the 6 week, exercise rehabilitation increased significantly: MWD (684±578 versus 247±232 m- p<0.001), ABI (0.89±0.25 versus 0.73±0.18 – p<0.01), VO2 (14.8±4.28 versus 12.3±3.61ml/kg/min – p<0.01), and C2 (3.89±1.58 versus 3.08±1.10ml/mmHg – p <0.05). C1 increased but non significantly (19.20±8.87 versus 14.73±4.07ml/mmHg – p=0.7)

Our study shows that a 6-week exercise-training program improves significantly small artery elasticity in patients with PAOD.