Analysis of Changes in Handgrip Strength and Blood Flow using Doppler Ultrasonography in Patients Receiving Chemotherapy

Abstract

Background: Cancer, the second leading cause of death globally, has witnessed a significant rise of cases in India over the past decade. Chemotherapy interventions, which often involve the intravenous administration of drugs, frequently result in vascular trauma. This trauma may lead to alterations in handgrip strength. However, there is sparse of evidences hence, this study aims to explore whether changes in blood flow caused by vascular trauma influence handgrip strength in chemotherapy patients.

Methodology: This observational study conducted with 22 consented patients, aged between 22 to 72 years of both genders receiving intravenous chemotherapy. The changes in the handgrip strength measured using electronic Camry hand grip dynamometer   and blood flow parameters (vein diameter, thickness, velocity, and phasicity) using Doppler ultrasound were analyzed before and after chemotherapy sessions.

Result: The results reflecting a notable difference in handgrip strength between men and female (p = 0.012 in the pre-test, 0.026 in the post-test). In blood flow parameters vein diameter (p=0.03) and velocity (p= 0.011) had significant difference. The correlation between handgrip strength and blood flow velocity is 0.829 (P=0.034), showing a strong and statistically significant relationship. The Correlation between handgrip strength and wall thickness 0.282 (p= 0.064), suggesting a moderate and borderline statistically significance. The Correlation between handgrip strength and vein diameter is 0.118 (p= 0.446), indicating a weak and statistically insignificant relationship.

Conclusion: Overall, the study found reductions in blood flow parameters and handgrip strength in chemotherapy patients, particularly those receiving alkylating agents. The findings underscore the need for further research on the long-term effects of chemotherapy and methods to mitigate its severity.