Effect of home-based cardiac rehabilitation for patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Rehabilitación para pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca: una revisión sistemática y metanálisis

SUMMARY: This study is to investigate the effect of home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) on quality of life, functional capacity, and readmission rates in patients with heart failure. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were screened from Cochrane Library, CINAHL, EMBASE, and MEDLINE. The intervention group received a standardized HBCR or a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy that included HBCR. The participants in the control group received CR at a medical center or usual care without CR intervention. The main outcome measurements included quality of life, exercise capacity, mortality and re-hospitalization. This meta-analysis included 20 RCTs, in which 16 studies compared HBCR with usual care, and 4 studies compared HBCR with center-based CR. In comparison with the usual care, HBCR improved the total quality of life score [MD=-5.85, 95 % CI (-9.76, - 1.94), P=0.003, I2=75 %]. Patients with HBCR and usual care were significantly different in VO2max [MD=1.05 mL/kg/min, 95 % CI (0.35, 1.75), P=0.003, I2=46 %]. However, VO2max of patients with HBCR was not significantly different from those with center-based CR [MD=0.08 mL/kg/min, 95 % CI (-1.29, 1.44), P=0.91, I2=0 %]. There was statistically significant difference in the 6-min Walk Distance between usual care and HBCR (for distance [MD=11.84, 95 % CI (7.41, 16.28), P<0.00001, I2=0 %]; and for feet [MD=98.93, 95 % CI (26.79, 171.08), P=0.007, I2=56 %]). However, there was no significant difference in 6-min Walk Distance between patients with HBCR and center-based CR [MD=12.45, 95 % CI (-9.81, 34.72), P=0.27, I2=0 %] , or in anxiety and depression between patients with usual care and HBCR (for anxiety, [MD=-0.25, 95 % CI (-0.56, 0.05), P=0.11, I2=0 %]; for depression, [MD=-0.18, 95 % CI (-0.51, 0.16), P=0.30, I2=0 %] . No significant difference was found in death number [RR=1.04, 95 % CI (0.55, 1.98), P=0.90, I2=0 %] or in the number of re-hospitalization [RR=0.88, 95 % CI (0.66, 1.18), P=0.40, I2=0 %] between usual care and HBCR. For patients with heart failure, compare with usual care and center-based CR, HBCR can improve the total quality of life. Compare with usual care, HBCR can improve VO2max and 6-min Walk Distance, but compare with center- based CR, there are no differences in mortality, re-hospitalization rate or incidence of anxiety and depression. Additionally, center- based CR and HBCR showed similar outcomes and medical costs.

El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar el efecto de la rehabilitación cardíaca domiciliaria (HBCR) sobre la calidad de vida, la capacidad funcional y las tasas de reingreso en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca. Se seleccionaron ensayos controlados aleatorios (ECA) de la Biblioteca Cochrane, CINAHL, EMBASE y MEDLINE. El grupo de intervención recibió un HBCR estandarizado o una estrategia de rehabilitación integral que incluía HBCR. Los participantes del grupo de control recibieron RC en un centro médico o atención habitual sin intervención de RC. Las principales medidas de resultado incluyeron la calidad de vida, la capacidad de ejercicio, la mortalidad y la rehospitalización. Este metanálisis incluyó 20 ECA, en los que 16 estudios compararon HBCR con la atención habitual y 4 estudios compararon que mejoró la puntuación total de calidad de vida [DM=-5,85, IC del 95 % (-9,76, -1,94), P=0,003, I2=75 %]. Los pacientes con HBCR y atención habitual fueron significativamente diferentes en el VO2máx [DM = 1,05 ml/kg/ min, IC del 95 % (0,35, 1,75), P = 0,003, I2 = 46 %]. Sin embargo, el VO2max de los pacientes con HBCR no fue significativamente diferente de aquellos con CR basada en el centro [DM = 0,08 ml/kg/min, IC del 95 % (-1,29, 1,44), P = 0,91, I2 = 0 %]. Hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en la distancia de caminata de 6 minutos entre la atención habitual y HBCR (para la distancia [DM=11,84, IC del 95 % (7,41, 16,28), P<0,00001, I2=0 %]; y para los pies [DM= 98,93, IC 95 % (26,79, 171,08), P=0,007, I2=56 %]). Sin embargo, no hubo una diferencia significativa en la distancia de caminata de 6 minutos entre los pacientes con HBCR y CR basada en el cen- tro [DM = 12,45, IC del 95 % (-9,81, 34,72), P = 0,27, I2 = 0 %], o en la ansiedad y depresión entre pacientes con atención habitual y HBCR (para ansiedad, [DM=-0,25, IC del 95 % (-0,56, 0,05), P=0,11, I2=0 %]; para depresión, [DM=-0,18, 95 % IC (- 0,51, 0,16), P=0,30, I2=0 %] No se encontraron diferencias significativas en el número de muertes [RR=1,04, IC del 95 % (0,55, 1,98), P=0,90, I2=0 %] o en el número de reingresos [RR=0,88, IC 95 % (0,66, 1,18), P=0,40, I2=0 %] entre atención habitual y HBCR. Para los pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca, en comparación con la atención habitual y la CR en un centro, la HBCR puede mejorar la calidad de vida total. En comparación con la atención habitual, la HBCR puede mejorar el VO2máx y la distancia recorrida en 6 minutos, pero en comparación con la CR basada en un centro, no hay diferencias en la mortalidad, la tasa de rehospitalización o la incidencia de ansiedad y depresión. Además, CR y HBCR basados en el centro mostraron resultados y costos médicos similares.

Experiencia en un programa de rehabilitación cardíaca extrahospitalario usando cardiotacómetros: seguridad y eficacia / Experience in an outpatient cardiac rehabilitation program using cardiotachometers: safety and effectiveness / Experiência em programa de reabilitação cardíaca extra-hospitalar com uso de cardiotacômetros: segurança e eficácia

Introducción: El ejercicio físico, integrando la rehabilitación cardíaca (RC), tiene un efecto positivo demostrado en el pronóstico de los pacientes con enfermedad cardiovascular, optimizando el rendimiento cardíaco en términos de capacidad funcional. Mediante los programas de RC se pretende obtener los máximos beneficios clínicos del ejercicio físico con un mínimo riesgo para el paciente. Objetivos: Evaluar la seguridad y eficacia de un programa de RC extrahospitalario en pacientes de todos los niveles de riesgo, monitorizando con cardiotacómetros (instrumento de pulsera que detecta frecuencia cardíaca y permite programar alarmas) a pacientes de moderado y alto riesgo, con base en la ausencia de complicaciones cardíacas graves y la mejoría funcional de los participantes. Material y métodos: Estudio de cohorte retrospectiva, sometida a un plan de RC durante 12 semanas en el período comprendido entre enero de 2014 y marzo de 2020. Se evaluaron parámetros clínicos y funcionales al inicio y al final del plan de rehabilitación, controlando la tolerancia al esfuerzo, la presión arterial y la frecuencia cardíaca mediante el uso de cardiotacómetros. Resultados: Se incluyeron 181 pacientes, con edad promedio de 58,7 ± 9,7 años, 87,8% del sexo masculino, mayoritariamente portadores de cardiopatía isquémica (90,1%). Según la clasificación de la Asociación Americana de Rehabilitación Cardiovascular y Pulmonar, 54 pacientes (29,8%) eran de alto riesgo, 29 (16,0%) de moderado riesgo y 98 (54,1%) de bajo riesgo. En más de 10.000 horas de actividad física realizadas, un paciente requirió el implante de un marcapaso definitivo por bloqueo auriculoventricular completo, sin observarse otras complicaciones graves. Se obtuvo una mejoría significativa (p = 0,001) de la capacidad funcional, que aumentó de 7,34 ± 2,68 a 10,20 ± 2,35 METs (incremento relativo individual promedio 28,1%). Conclusiones: La RC es un tratamiento seguro y efectivo en los pacientes cardiópatas, aún en aquellos de moderado y alto riesgo. El uso de cardiotacómetros permite una adecuada monitorización del ejercicio y una oportuna detección de complicaciones.

Introduction: physical exercise, integrating cardiac rehabilitation (CR), has a proven positive effect on the prognosis of patients with cardiovascular disease, optimizing cardiac performance in terms of functional capacity. CR programs aim to obtain maximum clinical benefits with minimal risks to the patient. Objectives: assess the safety and efficacy of a cardiotachometer-monitored out-of-hospital CR program in high- and moderate-risk patients, based on the absence of major cardiac complications and improvement in participant's functional capacity. Materials and methods: retrospective cohort study, submitted to a CR plan for 12 weeks in the period between January 2014 and March 2020. Clinical and functional parameters were evaluated at the beginning and at the end of the rehabilitation plan, controlling effort tolerance, blood pressure and heart rate using cardiotachometers. Results: 181 patients were included, aged 58.7 ± 9.7 years and 87.8% female, of whom 90% were carriers of ischemic heart disease. According to the classification of the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, the patients were distributed as follows: 54 (29.8%) at high risk, 29 (16.0%) at intermediate risk, and 98 (54.1%) low risk. In more than ten thousand hours of physical activity performed, one patient required implantation of a permanent pacemaker due to complete atrioventricular block. A significant improvement (p = 0.001) of the functional capacity, from 7.34 ± 2.68 to 10.2 ± 2.35 (mean relative improvement: 28.1%.) was obtained. Conclusions: the CR is a safe and effective procedure for cardiac patients, even in moderate or high-risk subjects. The use of cardiotachometers allows adequate exercise monitoring and timely detection of complications.

Introdução: o exercício físico, integrando a reabilitação cardíaca (RC), tem comprovado efeito positivo no prognóstico de pacientes com doença cardiovascular, otimizando o desempenho cardíaco em termos de capacidade funcional. Os programas de RC visam obter o máximo de benefícios clínicos com riscos mínimos para o paciente. Objetivos: avaliar a segurança e eficácia de um programa de RC fora do hospital monitorado por cardiotacômetro em pacientes de alto e moderado risco, com base na ausência de complicações cardíacas maiores e na melhora da capacidade funcional dos participantes. Materiais e métodos: trata-se de um estudo descritivo, de um plano de RC de 12 semanas, em um período entre janeiro de 2014 a março de 2020. Os parâmetros clínicos e funcionais foram avaliados no início e no final do plano de reabilitação, a tolerância ao esforço, pressão arterial e frequência cardíaca utilizando cardiotacômetros. Resultados: foram incluídos 181 pacientes, com média de idade de 58,7 ± 9,7 anos e 87,8% do sexo masculino, dos quais 90% eram portadores de cardiopatia isquêmica. De acordo com a classificação da Associação Americana de Reabilitação Cardiovascular e Pulmonar, os pacientes foram distribuídos da seguinte forma: 54 (29,8%) de alto risco, 29 (16,0%) de risco intermediário e 98 (54,1%) de baixo risco. Em mais de dez mil horas de atividade física realizada, um paciente necessitou de implante de marcapasso definitivo por bloqueio atrioventricular total. A avaliação final mostrou melhora significativa (p = 0,001) na capacidade funcional medida em METs; este passou de 7,34 ± 2,68 para 10,2 ± 2,35 (melhora relativa média: 28,1%). Conclusões: este trabalho demonstra que a RC é um tratamento seguro e eficaz para pacientes com doenças cardíacas, mesmo em indivíduos de risco moderado e alto. O uso de cardiotacômetros permite o monitoramento adequado do exercício e a detecção oportuna de complicações.

Continuous Aerobic Training and High Intensity Interval Training Increase Exercise Tolerance in Heart Failure Patients: A Retrospective Study

Abstract Background: Conventional aerobic training is the first choice in cardiac rehabilitation for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). However, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) may be an alternative, although it has little evidence. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of continuous aerobic training (CAT) or HIIT on exercise tolerance in CHF patients. Methods: Retrospective study with 30 patients, of both genders, members of a 10-week CAT or HIIT program. The control group (CON) consisted of patients who did not participate voluntarily in the program. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), thresholds (LV1 and LV2), and ventilatory efficiency in the production of dioxide (VE/VCO2 slope), oxygen uptake efficiency (OUES), and VO2 recovery kinetics were analyzed. A two-way or repeated measures ANOVA was used, followed by Fisher's post-hoc test (p<0.05). Results: After 10 weeks of training, the CAT group increased the treadmill speed at LV1 (p=0.040), while the HIIT increased both the speed (p=0.030) and incline of the treadmill (p<0.001) for VO2peak and LV2, as well as the total time of the cardiopulmonary test. The VE/VCO2 slope was lower than that predicted for CAT (p=0.003) and HIIT (p=0.008). There was no change in VO2peak, recovery of heart rate (HR), and VO2, VE/VCO2, and OUES in both groups. Conclusions: After 10 weeks, both CAT and HIIT increased the tolerance to physical exercise. However, HIIT showed improvement in more parameters, differently from CAT.

Prescripción de ejercicio durante la rehabilitación cardiaca de pacientes con Insuficiencia Cardiaca / Exercise prescription in patients with heart failure during cardiac rehabilitation

Resumen La insuficiencia cardiaca (IC) es una patología cardiovascular con elevada morbi-mortalidad, sus causas más frecuentes se asocian a la cardiopatía isquémica y la hipertensión arterial. La rehabilitación cardiaca (RC) ha demostrado ser efectiva para mejorar la sintomatología, la capacidad funcional, el número de internamientos y la mortalidad en personas con dicha enfermedad. A pesar de esto, se ha documentado que la RC y el ejercicio físico como uno de sus componentes, siguen siendo subutilizados. Se revisa la evidencia científica y guías de práctica clínica disponibles, con el objetivo de valorar la seguridad, la respuesta y los beneficios del ejercicio en personas con IC, incluyendo las recomendaciones sobre prescripción, modalidades de entrenamiento (HIIT, músculos respiratorios y electroestimulación muscular funcional) y finalmente las consideraciones especiales durante el proceso de RC.

Abstract Exercise prescription in patients with heart failure during cardiac rehabilitation. Heart Failure (HF) is a cardiovascular disease with high morbidity and mortality. The most frequent causes are associated with ischemic heart disease and high blood pressure. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) has been shown to be an effective method in improving symptoms, functional capacity, also in reduce of the number of hospitalizations and mortality in people with this disease. Despite this, it has been documented that CR and physical exercise continue to be underused. The scientific evidence and available clinical practice guidelines are reviewed, in order to assess the safety, response, and benefits of exercise in people with HF, including recommendations on prescription, training modalities (HIIT, respiratory muscles, and functional muscle electrostimulation) and finally the special considerations during the CR process.

Football society players over the age of 55: how stressful can a match be?

This study aimed atassessingthe physical activitylevel, heart rate and the salivary cortisol level of football society players.The sample consisted of 19 male mastersfootballplayerswith an average age of 56.7±3.9 years. The long form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)andPolar®heart rate monitors were usedas instruments, in additionto Salivette® tubes to measure salivary cortisol. Data analysis was performed by using the repeated measuresAnalysis of Variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni post hoctest,and Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient. The results showed that the salivary cortisol concentration indicated an index of 1.97 ng/ml at the beginning of the match;40 minutes after that thesevalues increased to 8.00 ng/ml,and 60 minutesafter the match had started they reached 8.40 ng/ml. Considering the post-match moment, a moderate and positive correlation between the salivary cortisol concentration and heart rate (averageand maximum) wasseen. In conclusion,the physical effort expended during football Society practice needs to be monitored due to the high heart rate and high increase in the salivary cortisol concentrationofthis age group.

Guía de práctica clínica para la prevención, el diagnóstico, el tratamiento y la rehabilitación de la falla cardiaca en población mayor de 18 años, clasificación B, C y D. Componente de rehabilitación cardiaca / Practice Guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of heart failure in a population greater than 18 years-old: B, C and D Classification. Cardiac rehabilitation component

Resumen Introducción: Los programas de rehabilitación cardiaca integran la realización de ejercicio supervisado con prevención secundaria y soporte sicosocial que permite mejorar la adherencia a medidas con impacto claro sobre la morbilidad y mortalidad en pacientes con falla cardiaca. Metodología: Para el desarrollo de la guía de práctica clínica basada en la evidencia se siguieron los pasos definidos en la Guía Metodológica para la Elaboración de Guías de Práctica Clínica con Evaluación Económica en el Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud Colombiano del Ministerio de Salud y Protección Social de Colombia. Resultados: Se establecen las recomendaciones para el desarrollo adecuado de un programa de rehabilitación cardiaca integral en pacientes con falla cardiaca, abordando aspectos de evaluación de capacidad funcional, efectividad y seguridad del ejercicio, dosificación, modalidad y rehabilitación en pacientes con dispositivos. Conclusión: La práctica de ejercicio en pacientes con falla cardíaca estable ha demostrado disminuir las hospitalizaciones, mejorar la calidad de vida y la capacidad funcional y ser seguro en aquellos a quienes se les ha implantado un dispositivo.

Abstract Introduction: Cardiac rehabilitation programs combine the performing of supervised exercise with secondary prevention and psycho-social support that helps to improve adherence to measures, with a clear impact on the morbidity and mortality in patients with heart failure. Methodology: For the development of the evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, the steps followed were those defined in the Methodological Guidelines for the Preparation of Clinical Practice Guidelines with an Economic Assessment in the General Social Security System in Colombian Health by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Colombia. Results: Recommendations were established for the adequate development of an integrated cardiac rehabilitation program for patients with heart failure. The aspects approached included the assessment of functional capacity, effectivity and safety of the exercise, dosification, methodology, and rehabilitation in patients with devices. Conclusion: The practice of exercise in patients with stable heart has shown to reduce the number of hospital admissions, improve the quality of life and functional capacity. It has also shown to be safe in those that have a device implanted.

Examining the impacts of 12 weeks of low to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on depression status in patients with systolic congestive heart failure - A randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVES: Psychiatric depression disorder is common in patients with systolic congestive heart failure (HF), and both conditions share underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. The incidence rate of depression disorder has clearly increased with the increase in HF manifestations in recent decades. Depression disorder is considered an independent predisposing factor for hospitalization, disturbed functional performance, and high rates of morbidity and mortality in HF patients. This randomized controlled study was designed to examine the impacts of low- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise training on depression status in patients with systolic congestive HF. METHODS: A total of 46 systolic congestive HF patients with depression (40-60 years of age) were randomized to receive twelve weeks of mild- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise plus standard medical treatment (exercise group) or standard medical treatment without any exercise intervention (control group). Depression status was examined using the validated Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ9) pre- and post-intervention at the end of the study program. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed between the exercise and control groups in demographic data or clinical characteristics (p>0.05). Both study groups showed a significant reduction in depression status at the end of the 12-week intervention (p<0.05). The comparison between the mean values of the depression scores showed significant differences between the two groups after 6 and 12 weeks of the intervention, indicating a greater reduction in depression scores in the exercise group than in the control group (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Twelve weeks of a low- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program was safe and effective for reducing depression severity in patients with systolic congestive HF. Low- to moderate-intensity aerobic training should be recommended for cardiac patients, particularly those with HF-related depression.

Safety and Efficacy of Aerobic Exercise Training Associated to Non-Invasive Ventilation in Patients with Acute Heart Failure / Segurança e Eficácia do Treinamento Aeróbio Combinado à Ventilação Não-Invasiva em Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca Aguda

Abstract Background: Exercise training (ET) improves functional capacity in chronic heart failure (HF). However, ET effects in acute HF are unknown. Objective: To investigate the effects of ET alone or combined with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) compared with standard medical treatment during hospitalization in acute HF patients. Methods: Twenty-nine patients (systolic HF) were randomized into three groups: control (Control - only standard medical treatment); ET with placebo NIV (ET+Sham) and ET+NIV (NIV with 14 and 8 cmH2O of inspiratory and expiratory pressure, respectively). The 6MWT was performed on day 1 and day 10 of hospitalization and the ET was performed on an unloaded cycle ergometer until patients' tolerance limit (20 min or less) for eight consecutive days. For all analyses, statistical significance was set at 5% (p < 0.05). Results: None of the patients in either exercise groups had adverse events or required exercise interruption. The 6MWT distance was greater in ET+NIV (Δ120 ± 72 m) than in ET+Sham (Δ73 ± 26 m) and Control (Δ45 ± 32 m; p < 0.05). Total exercise time was greater (128 ± 10 vs. 92 ± 8 min; p < 0.05) and dyspnea was lower (3 ± 1 vs. 4 ± 1; p < 0.05) in ET+NIV than ET+Sham. The ET+NIV group had a shorter hospital stay (17 ± 10 days) than ET+Sham (23 ± 8 days) and Control (39 ± 15 days) groups (p < 0.05). Total exercise time in ET+Sham and ET+NIV had significant correlation with length of hospital stay (r = -0.75; p = 0.01). Conclusion: Exercise training in acute HF was safe, had no adverse events and, when combined with NIV, improved 6MWT and reduce dyspnea and length of stay.

Resumo Fundamento: O exercício físico melhora a capacidade funcional em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) crônica. Entretanto, os efeitos do exercício na IC aguda são desconhecidos. Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos do exercício físico isolado ou associado à ventilação não-invasiva (VNI) em comparação ao tratamento convencional em pacientes com IC durante internação. Métodos: Vinte e nove pacientes (IC sistólica) foram randomizados em três grupos: Controle (tratamento clínico convencional); exercício com ventilação placebo (EX+Sham) e EX+VNI (VNI com 14 e 8 cmH2O de pressão inspiratória e expiratória, respectivamente).O TC6M foi realizado no primeiro e no décimo dia de internação e o exercício realizado em cicloergômetro até o limite de tolerância (20 minutos ou menos) por oito dias consecutivos. Para todas as análises, foi considerado p < 0,05 estatisticamente significante. Resultados: Nenhum paciente dos grupos EX+Sham e EX+VNI apresentou complicações ou necessitou interromper o exercício. O grupo EX+VNI apresentou melhor desempenho no TC6M (Δ120 ± 72 m) que os grupos EX+Sham (Δ73 ± 26 m) e Controle (Δ45 ± 32 m; p < 0,05). O tempo total de exercício foi maior (128 ± 10 vs. 92 ± 8 min; p < 0,05) e a dispneia menor (3 ± 1 vs. 4 ± 1; p < 0,05) no EX+VNI em relação ao EX+Sham. O grupo EX+VNI apresentou menor tempo de internação (17 ± 10 dias) comparado ao EX+Sham (23 ± 8 dias) e Controle (39 ± 15 dias; p < 0,05). O tempo total de exercício nos grupos EX+Sham e EX+VNI correlacionou-se com o tempo de internação hospitalar (r = -0,75; p = 0,01). Conclusão: O exercício físico foi seguro em pacientes com IC aguda, não houve complicações hospitalares e, quando associada à VNI, melhorou o desempenho no TC6M, dispneia e o tempo de internação.

Barreiras da reabilitação cardíaca em uma cidade do nordeste do Brasil / Barriers to cardiovascular rehabilitation care in a northeast city of Brazil

Averiguar as barreiras por regiões do Brasil, pode ser uma valiosa estratégia para melhorar a inserção e adesão dos pacientes cardiopatas a programas de reabilitação cardiovascular. Objetivo: Identificar e descrever os motivos que levam a não inclusão de indivíduos cardiopatas em programas de reabilitação cardiovascular. Métodos: Estudo descritivo de corte transversal com 79 indivíduos de ambos sexos, com idade superior a 50 anos, cardiopatas provenientes de cinco clínicas particulares de cardiologia. Para identificação dos fatores que interferiam na inclusão dos pacientes aos programas de reabilitação cardiovascular, foi aplicada a escala de barreiras para reabilitação cardíaca. Esse instrumento é composto de 22 itens, sendo que 21 são questões fechadas e objetivas. Os indivíduos foram instruídos a assinalar "SIM" ou "NÃO" para cada item objetivo da escala, caso identificassem o item como uma barreira ou não para a inclusão/adesão. Resultados: 64(81%) da amostra não sabia da existência da reabilitação cardiovascular e dos seus benefícios. Para 50(63%) a distância da residência até o centro de reabilitação foi uma barreira. Além disso, o custo com mobilidade urbana 37 (47%) e a não indicação do médico por achar desnecessário 32 (40%) também foram apontadas como barreiras. Conclusão: Os resultados deste estudo indicam que as principais bramireis para a não inserção em programas de reabilitação cardiovascular foram a falta de conhecimento sobre os benefícios desse tipo de programa, a distância da residência dos pacientes até o centro mais próximo e o custo com deslocamento

Identifying barriers by regions of Brazil can be a valuable strategy to improve the insertion and adherence of patients with cardiopathy to cardiovascular rehabilitation programs. Objective: To identify and describe the reasons that lead to the non-inclusion of individuals with cardiopathy in cardiovascular rehabilitation programs. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study with 79 individuals of both sexes, aged over 50 years, with cardiopathy from five private cardiology clinics. To identify the factors that interfered with the inclusion of patients in cardiovascular rehabilitation programs, the scale of barriers for cardiac rehabilitation was applied. This instrument is composed of 22 items, 21 of which are closed and objective questions. Individuals were instructed to tick "YES" or "NO" for each target item on the scale if they identified the item as a barrier to inclusion / adherence. Results: 64 (81%) of the sample did not know about the existence of cardiovascular rehabilitation and its benefits. For 50 (63%) the distance from the residence to the rehabilitation center was a barrier. In addition, the cost of urban mobility 37 (47%) and the lack of indication of the physician as unnecessary 32 (40%) were also pointed as barriers.Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the main reasons for non-insertion in cardiovascular rehabilitation programs were the lack of knowledge about the benefits of this type of program, the distance of the patients' residence to the nearest center and the displacement cost

Reassessment of quality of life domains in patients with compensated Chagas heart failure after participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program

Abstract INTRODUCTION: We evaluated the effects of a cardiac rehabilitation program on quality of life. METHODS This secondary analysis of a single-arm study included 12 patients with Chagas heart failure. The cardiac rehabilitation program comprised exercise training and nutritional and pharmaceutical counseling. Quality of life was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire. RESULTS: The program promoted improved physical functioning (β= +5.7; p=0.003), role-physical (β= +1.9; p=0.03), and bodily pain (β= +3.5; p=0.02) scores. Moreover, the summary physical health score (β= +1.4; p=0.001) improved. CONCLUSION: The cardiac rehabilitation program significantly improved the physical quality of life of patients with Chagas heart failure.

Cardiac rehabilitation program in patients with Chagas heart failure: a single-arm pilot study

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The benefit of a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program for patients with Chagas heart failure (CHF) remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of CR for CHF patients. METHODS: A single-arm pilot study, including 12 patients with CHF, was performed. Patients participated in an 8-month physical exercise intervention, comprising aerobic, strength, and stretching exercises (3 times per week, 60 minutes per session). Nutritional and pharmaceutical counseling were also performed. Functional capacity (cardiopulmonary exercise test), muscle respiratory strength (manovacuometry), and body composition (anthropometry and skinfolds) were evaluated at baseline, and after 4 and 8 months of intervention. Cardiac function (echocardiography), biomarkers (lipid profile, glucose, and glycated hemoglobin) and quality of life (Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire) were assessed at baseline and at the end of the intervention. RESULTS: Seven of 12 patients included in the study completed the 8-month follow-up period. Only 2 moderate adverse events occurred during the exercise training. Functional capacity improved after 4 months of CR, while left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and respiratory strength improved after 8 months. Patients with right ventricular (RV) dysfunction at baseline exhibited an improvement in functional capacity after 4 months, and improvements in left ventricular (LV) diastolic pressure, respiratory strength, and quality of life at the end of follow-up. Conversely, those with normal baseline RV function demonstrated LVEF increases that were not observed in patients with RV dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: CR was feasible, safe, and has important clinical benefits for patients with CHF, specifically for cardiac function and muscle respiratory strength.

Evaluación de dispositivo de asistencia ventricular cardiológico (DAV) / Evaluation of cardiological ventricular assist device (VAD)

INTRODUCCIÓN: Antecedentes: La insuficiencia es una anomalia de la estrutura o la función cardiacas que hace que el corazón no pueda suministrar oxígenio a una frecuencia acorde con las necesidades de los tejidos normales de llenado. Se define clinciamente como un síndrome con síntomas (disnea, edema de miembros inferiores, fatiga...) y signos tipicos (presión venosa yugular elevada, crepitantes pulmonares, latido apical desplazado...) consecuencia de la alteración estructural o de la función cardiacas. Aspectos Generales: La insuficiencia cardiaca es una enfermedad progresiva y letal, aún con tratamiento adecuado. Así, una vez establecido el diagnp´óstico de insuficiência cardiaca, la tasa de mortalidad es del 50% a los 4 años y el 40% de los pacientes ingresados por insuficiencia cardiaca fallece o reingresa durante el primer año. En situación de insuficiencia cardiaca grave refractaria, el pronóstico, con tratamiento médico, es aún peor, con una supervivencia al año menor de 25%, comparable al de las neoplasias más agresivas. Tecnología Sanitaria de Interés: Los dispositivos de asistencia ventricular (DAV) son aquellos capaces de generar flujo circulatorio para sustituir parcial o totalmente la función del corazón en situaciones agudas o crónicas de fracaso cardiaco severo que no responde a otros tratamientos. Los DAV pueden proporcionar apoyo hemodinámico al ventrículo izquierdo, al derecho o a ambos, e incluso pueden sustituir completamente sus funciones. METODOLOGÍA: Estrategia de Búsqueda: Se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura con respecto a la eficacia y seguridad del uso de los Dispositivos de Asistencia Ventricular (DAV) en las bases de datos MEDLINE y TRIPDATABASE. Se hizo una búsqueda en www.clinicaltrials.gov, para poder identificar ensayos aún en elaboración o que no hayan sido publicados. Adicionalmente, se hizo una búsqueda dentro de la información generada por grupos que realizan revisiones sistemáticas, evaluación de tecnologías sanitarias y guías de práctica clínica, tales como The Cochrane Library y The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). RESULTADOS: Se realizó la búsqueda bibliográfico y de evidencia científica para el sustento del uso de los DAV en pacientes candidato a trasplante. Se presenta la evidencia disponible en guías de práctica clínica, Evaluación de Tecnologías sanitarias, revisiones sistemáticas y ensayos clínicos. CONCLUSIONES: En la presente evaluación de tecnología sanitaria se evidencia la eficacia y seguridad del uso de los Dispositivos de Asistencia Ventricular (DAV) como puente al trasplante cardiaco. Se demuestra la alta tasa de supervivencia que tienen los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca terminal, a los cuales se le indicó el uso de un Dispositivio de Asistencia Ventricular como puente al tranplante cardiaco. Se evidencia la recuperación de la funcionalidad cardiaca y la calidad de vida de los pacientes con severidad progresiva a la insuficiencia cardiaca. Los estudios corroboran adicionalmente, que el uso del Dispositivo de Asistencia Ventricular están siendo utilizados para otras indicaciones, como los pacientes inotrópicos dependientes, los pacientes con riesgo de mortalidad al año y los que tienen falla de otros órganos.

Alternatives to Aerobic Exercise Prescription in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure / Alternativas para Prescrição de Exercício Aeróbio a Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca

Background: Exercise is essential for patients with heart failure as it leads to a reduction in morbidity and mortality as well as improved functional capacity and oxygen uptake (v̇O2). However, the need for an experienced physiologist and the cost of the exam may render the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) unfeasible. Thus, the six-minute walk test (6MWT) and step test (ST) may be alternatives for exercise prescription. Objective: The aim was to correlate heart rate (HR) during the 6MWT and ST with HR at the anaerobic threshold (HRAT) and peak HR (HRP) obtained on the CPET. Methods: Eighty-three patients (58 ± 11 years) with heart failure (NYHA class II) were included and all subjects had optimized medication for at least 3 months. Evaluations involved CPET (v̇O2, HRAT, HRP), 6MWT (HR6MWT) and ST (HRST). Results: The participants exhibited severe ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction: 31 ± 7%) and low peak v̇O2 (15.2 ± 3.1 mL.kg-1.min-1). HRP (113 ± 19 bpm) was higher than HRAT (92 ± 14 bpm; p < 0.05) and HR6MWT (94 ± 13 bpm; p < 0.05). No significant difference was found between HRP and HRST. Moreover, a strong correlation was found between HRAT and HR6MWT (r = 0.81; p < 0.0001), and between HRP and HRST (r = 0.89; p < 0.0001). Conclusion: These findings suggest that, in the absence of CPET, exercise prescription can be performed by use of 6MWT and ST, based on HR6MWT and HRST.

Fundamento: O exercício físico é fundamental para pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca, pois reduz a morbimortalidade e melhora a capacidade funcional e o consumo de oxigênio (v̇O2). Entretanto, a realização do teste de exercício cardiopulmonar (TECP) pode se tornar inviável, devido à necessidade de médico capacitado e ao alto custo deste exame. Assim, o teste de caminhada de 6 minutos (TC6M) e o teste do degrau (TD) emergem como alternativas para a prescrição de exercício. Objetivo: Correlacionar a frequência cardíaca (FC) durante o TC6M e o TD com a FC no limiar aeróbio (FCLA) e a FC no pico do exercício (FCP), obtidas no TECP. Métodos: Foram incluídos 83 pacientes (58 ± 11 anos) com insuficiência cardíaca (NYHA classe II), com medicação otimizada por pelo menos 3 meses. Foram realizados TECP (v̇O2, FCLA e FCP), TC6M (FCTC6M) e TD (FCTD). Resultados: Os pacientes apresentavam disfunção ventricular grave (fração de ejeção: 31 ± 7%) e baixo v̇O2 pico (15,2 ± 3,1 ml.kg-1.min-1). A FCP (113 ± 19 bpm) foi maior que a FCLA (92 ± 14 bpm; p < 0,05) e a FCTC6M (94 ± 13 bpm; p < 0,05). Não houve diferença entre FCP e FCTD. Além disso, observou-se forte correlação entre a FCLA e a FCTC6M (r = 0,81; p < 0,0001) e entre a FCP e a FCTD (r = 0,89; p < 0,0001). Conclusão: Os resultados obtidos sugerem ser viável a prescrição de exercício através do TC6M e do TD, com base na FCTC6M e na FCTD, na ausência do TECP.

Effect of exercise training on ventilatory efficiency in patients with heart disease: a review

The analysis of ventilatory efficiency in cardiopulmonary exercise testing has proven useful for assessing the presence and severity of cardiorespiratory diseases. During exercise, efficient pulmonary gas exchange is characterized by uniform matching of lung ventilation with perfusion. By contrast, mismatching is marked by inefficient pulmonary gas exchange, requiring increased ventilation for a given CO2 production. The etiology of increased and inefficient ventilatory response to exercise in heart disease is multifactorial, involving both peripheral and central mechanisms. Exercise training has been recommended as non-pharmacological treatment for patients with different chronic cardiopulmonary diseases. In this respect, previous studies have reported improvements in ventilatory efficiency after aerobic exercise training in patients with heart disease. Against this background, the primary objective of the present review was to discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in abnormal ventilatory response to exercise, with an emphasis on both patients with heart failure syndrome and coronary artery disease. Secondly, special focus was dedicated to the role of aerobic exercise training in improving indices of ventilatory efficiency among these patients, as well as to the underlying mechanisms involved.

Construção e Validação do Questionário de Conhecimentos para Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca / Construction and Validation of a Questionnaire about Heart Failure Patients' Knowledge of Their Disease

Fundamento: A ausência de instrumentos capazes de mensurar o nível de conhecimento de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca sobre sua própria síndrome, participantes de programas de reabilitação, demonstra a carência de recomendações específicas a respeito da quantidade ou do conteúdo de informações necessárias. Objetivo: Construir e validar um questionário para avaliar o conhecimento sobre sua condição de pacientes portadores de insuficiência cardíaca participantes de programas de reabilitação cardíaca. Métodos: O instrumento foi construído com base no questionário de conhecimento para doença coronariana e aplicado em 96 pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca, com média de idade de 60,22 ± 11,6 anos, 64% homens. A reprodutibilidade foi obtida por meio do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse, utilizando-se as situações do método de teste-reteste. A consistência interna foi obtida pelo alfa de Cronbach e a validade do construto, pela análise fatorial exploratória. Resultados: A versão final do instrumento apresentou 19 questões dispostas em dez áreas de importância para a educação do paciente. O instrumento proposto apresentou um índice de clareza de 8,94 ± 0,83. O valor do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse foi de 0,856 e do alfa de Cronbach, 0,749. A análise fatorial revelou cinco fatores associados às áreas de conhecimento. Quando os escores finais foram comparados com as características da população, verificou-se que baixa escolaridade e baixa renda estão significativamente associadas a baixos escores de conhecimento. Conclusão: O instrumento possui índice de clareza satisfatório e de validade adequado, podendo ser utilizado ...

Background: The lack of tools to measure heart failure patients' knowledge about their syndrome when participating in rehabilitation programs demonstrates the need for specific recommendations regarding the amount or content of information required. Objectives: To develop and validate a questionnaire to assess heart failure patients' knowledge about their syndrome when participating in cardiac rehabilitation programs. Methods: The tool was developed based on the Coronary Artery Disease Education Questionnaire and applied to 96 patients with heart failure, with a mean age of 60.22 ± 11.6 years, 64% being men. Reproducibility was obtained via the intraclass correlation coefficient, using the test-retest method. Internal consistency was assessed by use of Cronbach's alpha, and construct validity, by use of exploratory factor analysis. Results: The final version of the tool had 19 questions arranged in ten areas of importance for patient education. The proposed questionnaire had a clarity index of 8.94 ± 0.83. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.856, and Cronbach's alpha, 0.749. Factor analysis revealed five factors associated with the knowledge areas. Comparing the final scores with the characteristics of the population evidenced that low educational level and low income are significantly associated with low levels of knowledge. Conclusion: The instrument has satisfactory clarity and validity indices, and can be used to assess the heart failure patients' knowledge about their syndrome when participating in cardiac rehabilitation programs. .

Rehabilitación cardiovascular en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca crónica de etiología isquémica / Cardiovascular rehabilitation in patients with chronic heart failure of ischemic etiology

Introducción: a pesar de los avances terapéuticos en nuestro país persisten tasas elevadas de insuficiencia cardíaca, que constituye la vía final de las enfermedades cardiovasculares. Objetivo: evaluar la eficacia de un programa de rehabilitación cardiovascular en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca crónica de etiología isquémica. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional prospectivo analítico en el Hospital CIMEQ. Se incluyeron 60 pacientes con tratamiento médico convencional. En 30 pacientes se aplicó un programa de rehabilitación que incluyó ejercicios físicos aeróbicos y charlas educativas (grupo activo), los restantes conformaron el grupo control. Resultados: a los 6 meses el grupo activo alcanzó disminución en la frecuencia cardíaca basal de 10 lpm y de 10 mm/hg y 5 mm/hg en cifras de presión arterial sistólica y diastólica, respectivamente. El grupo activo mejoró la capacidad de esfuerzo medida en equivalentes metabólicos (7,6 ± 2 frente a 5,8 ± 2; p < 0,01) y la clase funcional en el 100 porciento frente al 33 porciento; p < 0,05, sin mostrar diferencias significativas en el tiempo de ejercicio. En los pacientes rehabilitados la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo se incrementó en el 5 porciento. Conclusiones: los pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca vinculados con programas de ejercicios físicos, muestran mejoría de la función cardíaca, la tolerancia al esfuerzo y la clase funcional. Alcanzan mayor reducción en las cifras de presión arterial y frecuencia cardíaca basal, por lo que se hace necesaria la potenciación y empleo de programas de rehabilitación cardiovascular, en el manejo de estos pacientes

Introduction: despite the therapeutic progress achieved in our country, heart failure rates are still high, which is the final pathway toward cardiovascular disease. Objective: evaluate the efficacy of a cardiovascular rehabilitation program in patients with chronic heart failure of ischemic etiology. Methods: an observational analytical prospective study was conducted with 60 patients receiving conventional medical treatment at CIMEQ Hospital. Thirty of the patients underwent a rehabilitation program which included aerobic physical exercise and educational talks (active group). The remaining patients constituted the control group. Results: after six months the active group had achieved a decrease in basal heart rate of 10 lpm and of 10mm/hg and 5mm/hg in systolic and diastolic blood pressure values, respectively. The active group improved their exercise capacity measured as metabolic equivalents (7.6 ± 2 vs. 5.8 ± 2; p < 0.01) and their functional class in 100 percent versus 33 percent; p < 0.05 without any significant differences in exercise time. Rehabilitated patients exhibited a 5 percent left ventricular ejection fraction increase. Conclusions: patients with heart failure receiving physical exercise programs improve their cardiac function, their exercise tolerance and their functional class. They also achieve a greater reduction in blood pressure and basal heart rate. It is therefore necessary to strengthen cardiovascular rehabilitation programs and use them with these patients