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.

Effectiveness of inspiratory muscle training associated with a cardiac rehabilitation program on sympathetic activity and functional capacity in patients with heart failure: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Individuals affected by heart failure (HF) may present fatigue, dyspnea, respiratory muscle weakness, and sympathetic activity hyperstimulation of the myocardium, among other symptoms. Conducting cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs can be associated with inspiratory muscle training. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of inspiratory muscular training (IMT) associated with a CR program on modulating myocardial sympathetic activity and maximal functional capacity, submaximal functional capacity, thickness, and mobility of the diaphragm muscle in patients with HF. METHODS: We will conduct a clinical, controlled, randomized, double-blind trial that will include sedentary men and women who are 21-60 years old and who have diagnosed systolic HF and a left ventricular ejection fraction of less than 45%. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: experimental and control. The control group will follow the conventional CR protocol, and the experimental group will follow the conventional CR protocol associated with IMT 7 days a week. The two proposed exercise protocols will have a frequency of three times a week for a period of 12 weeks. The sympathetic innervation of the cardiac muscle, the maximum and submaximal functional capacity, diaphragm mobility and thickness, and the quality of life of the participants will be evaluated before and after the intervention protocol. DISCUSSION: This clinical trial will be the first study to investigate the additional effects of IMT on CR in sympathetic hyperstimulation in the myocardium. The results of this study will contribute to developing therapeutic strategies collaborating to elucidate whether the association of IMT with CR can induce clinical benefits for patients with HF. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02600000. Registered November 9, 2015. Retrospectively registered.

Cardiopulmonary exercise capacity and quality of life of patients with heart failure undergoing a functional training program: study protocol for a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Exercise intolerance is a common finding in heart failure that generates a vicious cycle in which the individual starts to limit his activities even more due to progressive fatigue. Regular physical exercise can increase the cardiopulmonary exercise capacity of these individuals. A new approach to physical exercise, known as functional training, could improve the oxygen consumption and quality of life of patients with heart failure; however, there is no information about the effect of this modality of exercise in this patient population. This randomized trial will compare the effects of 36 sessions of functional training versus strength training in heart failure patients. METHODS: This randomized parallel-design examiner-blinded clinical trial includes individuals of both sexes aged ≥40 years receiving regular follow-up at a single academic hospital. Subjects will be randomly allocated to an intervention group (for 12-week functional training) or an active comparator group (for 12-week strength training). The primary outcomes will be the difference from baseline to the 3-month time point in peak oxygen consumption on cardiopulmonary exercise testing and quality of life assessed by the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire. Secondary outcome measures will include functionality assessed by the Duke Activity Status Index and gait speed test; peripheral and inspiratory muscular strength, assessed by hand grip and manovacuometry testing, respectively; endothelial function by brachial artery flow-mediated dilation; lean body mass by arm muscle circumference; and participant adherence to the exercise programs classified as a percentage of the prescribed exercise dose. DISCUSSION: The functional training program aims to improve the functional capacity of the individual using exercises that relate to his specific physical activity transferring gains effectively to one's daily life. In this context, we believe that that functional training can increase the cardiopulmonary exercise capacity and quality of life of patients with heart failure. The trial has been recruiting patients since October 2017. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT03321682. Registered on October 26, 2017.

High-intensity interval training is effective and superior to moderate continuous training in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a prevalent syndrome, with exercise intolerance being one of its hallmarks, contributing to worse quality of life and mortality. High-intensity interval training is an emerging training option, but its efficacy in HFpEF patients is still unknown. DESIGN: Single-blinded randomized clinical trial. METHODS: Single-blinded randomized clinical trial with exercise training 3 days per week for 12 weeks. HFpEF patients were randomly assigned to high-intensity interval training or moderate continuous training. At baseline and after 12 week follow-up, patients underwent clinical assessment, echocardiography and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). RESULTS: Mean age was 60 ± 9 years and 63% were women. Both groups (N = 19) showed improved peak oxygen consumption (VO2), but high-intensity interval training patients (n = 10) had a significantly higher increase, of 22%, compared with 11% in the moderate continuous training (n = 9) individuals (3.5 (3.1 to 4.0) vs. 1.9 (1.2 to 2.5) mL·kg-1·min-1, p < 0.001). Ventilatory efficiency and other CPET measures, as well as quality of life score, increased equally in the two groups. Left ventricular diastolic function also improved with training, reflected by a significant reduction in E/e' ratio by echocardiography (-2.6 (-4.3 to -1.0) vs. -2.2 (-3.6 to -0.9) for high-intensity interval training and moderate continuous training, respectively; p < 0.01). There were no exercise-related adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: This randomized clinical trial provided evidence that high-intensity interval training is a potential exercise modality for HFpEF patients, being more effective than moderate continuous training in improving peak VO2. However, the two strategies were equally effective in improving ventilatory efficiency and other CPET parameters, quality of life score and diastolic function after 3 months of training.

Cardiac reinnervation affects cardiorespiratory adaptations to exercise training in individuals with heart transplantation.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the hemodynamic and cardiorespiratory adaptations to exercise in individuals with heart transplantation with evidence of cardiac reinnervation (cardiac reinnervation group) versus without evidence of cardiac reinnervation (no cardiac reinnervation group). METHODS: Sedentary individuals with heart transplantation (age = 45.5 ± 2.2 years; time elapsed since surgery = 6.7 ± 0.7 years) were divided into the cardiac reinnervation (n = 16) and no cardiac reinnervation (n = 17) groups according to their heart rate response to cardiopulmonary exercise testing. The 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure, carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, and cardiorespiratory fitness were assessed before and after 12 weeks of a thrice-weekly exercise program (five minutes of warm-up, 30 min of endurance exercise, one set of 10-15 reps in five resistance exercises, and five minutes of cool-down). RESULTS: The cardiac reinnervation group had reduced (p < 0.01) 24-hour systolic/diastolic blood pressure (7/9 mm Hg), daytime systolic/diastolic blood pressure (9/10 mm Hg) and nighttime diastolic blood pressure (6 mm Hg) after training. The no cardiac reinnervation group reduced (p < 0.05) only 24-hour (5 mm Hg), daytime (5 mm Hg) and nighttime (6 mm Hg) diastolic blood pressure after training. Hourly analysis showed that the cardiac reinnervation group reduced systolic/diastolic blood pressure for 10/21 h, while the no cardiac reinnervation group reduced systolic/diastolic blood pressure for only 3/11 h. The cardiac reinnervation group also improved both maximal oxygen consumption (10.8%) and exercise tolerance (13.4%) after training, but the no cardiac reinnervation group improved only exercise tolerance (9.9%). Pulse wave velocity did not change in both groups. CONCLUSION: There were greater improvements in ambulatory blood pressure and maximal oxygen consumption in the cardiac reinnervation than the no cardiac reinnervation group. These results suggest that cardiac reinnervation associates with hemodynamic and cardiorespiratory adaptations to exercise training in individuals with heart transplantation.

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.

Flow-mediated dilation and heart failure: a review with implications to physical rehabilitation.

Endothelial dysfunction plays as an important role on mismatch responses that occur during exercise in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). However, cardiac rehabilitation, a core component of management of CHF patients, can improve endothelial function, contributing to reduce the morbidity and mortality of these patients. The primary aims of this review were to describe the importance of flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) as a non-invasive validation tool to assess endothelial dysfunction and to highlight the relevance of scientific studies that evaluated the effects of exercise interventions on peripheral vascular endothelial function as measured by FMD in patients with CHF with both preserved and reduced ejection fraction.

Exercise during transition from compensated left ventricular hypertrophy to heart failure in aortic stenosis rats.

We evaluated the influence of aerobic exercise on cardiac remodelling during the transition from compensated left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy to clinical heart failure in aortic stenosis (AS) rats. Eighteen weeks after AS induction, rats were assigned into sedentary (AS) and exercised (AS-Ex) groups. Results were compared to Sham rats. Exercise was performed on treadmill for 8 weeks. Exercise improved functional capacity. Echocardiogram showed no differences between AS-Ex and AS groups. After exercise, fractional shortening and ejection fraction were lower in AS-Ex than Sham. Myocyte diameter and interstitial collagen fraction were higher in AS and AS-Ex than Sham; however, myocyte diameter was higher in AS-Ex than AS. Myocardial oxidative stress, evaluated by lipid hydroperoxide concentration, was higher in AS than Sham and was normalized by exercise. Gene expression of the NADPH oxidase subunits NOX2 and NOX4, which participate in ROS generation, did not differ between groups. Activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase was lower in AS and AS-Ex than Sham and glutathione peroxidase was lower in AS-Ex than Sham. Total and reduced myocardial glutathione, which is involved in cellular defence against oxidative stress, was lower in AS than Sham and total glutathione was higher in AS-Ex than AS. The MAPK JNK was higher in AS-Ex than Sham and AS groups. Phosphorylated P38 was lower in AS-Ex than AS. Despite improving functional capacity, aerobic exercise does not change LV function in AS rats. Exercise restores myocardial glutathione, reduces oxidative stress, impairs JNK signalling and further induces myocyte hypertrophy.

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.

The impact of high-intensity inspiratory muscle training on exercise capacity and inspiratory muscle strength in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE:: Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) improves prognostic clinical variables in patients with heart failure. However, the optimal intensity for increasing those outcomes remains unclear. Thus, we aimed to determine whether high-intensity inspiratory muscle training (HIIMT) improves exercise capacity and respiratory muscle strength in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). METHODS:: We searched for randomized controlled clinical trials at MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database, SciELO and CINAHL from the earliest date available to May 2018. Primary studies on HIIMT against low-intensity IMT or sham-IMT that evaluated exercise capacity and inspiratory muscle strength were included. Two independent reviewers evaluated the eligibility of studies retrieved from the databases. Disagreements were resolved by discussion or by a third reviewer. Weighted mean difference (WMD), standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated by random effect models. RESULTS:: Five studies met the eligibility criteria (138 patients). HIIMT improved VO2peak (WMD 2.65 mL kg-1 min-1; 95% CI: 2.2 to 3.1 mL kg-1 min-1), walking tests (SMD 1.71; 95% CI: 0.83 to 2.59) and maximal inspiratory pressure (WMD 16.63 cmH2O; 95% CI: 10.34 to 22.91 cmH2O). The estimate for potential risks of adverse events was not performed because of the low prevalence of reports in primary studies. CONCLUSION:: HIIMT seems to be a useful strategy for improving exercise capacity and inspiratory muscle strength in HFrEF patients.

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.

Influence of exercise on oxidative stress in patients with heart failure.

Reactive oxygen species play an important role in the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF). In contrast, regular physical exercise can promote adaptations to reactive oxygen species that are beneficial for patients with HF. We completed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials that evaluate the influence of exercise on oxidative stress in patients with HF. Articles were searched in the PubMed, Cochrane, SciELO, and LILACS databases. The search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. We selected 12 studies with a total of 353 participants. The included patients had a left ventricle ejection fraction of < 52% and New York Heart Association functional class II or III disease. A significant increase was observed in peak oxygen consumption (between 10 and 46%) in the group that underwent training (TG). There was an improvement in the oxidative capacity of skeletal muscles in the TG, related to the positive activity of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase (between 27 and 41%). An increase in the expression of the enzymes glutathione peroxidase (41%), catalase (between 14 and 42%), and superoxide dismutase (74.5%), and a decrease in lipid peroxidation (between 28.8 and 58.5%) were observed in the TG. Physical training positively influenced the cardiorespiratory capacity and enhanced the benefits of oxidant and antioxidant biomarkers in patients with HF. High-intensity training promoted a 15% increase in the plasma total antioxidant capacity, whereas moderate training had no effect.

Safety and Efficacy of Aerobic Exercise Training Associated to Non-Invasive Ventilation in Patients with Acute Heart Failure.

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.