Altered heart rate variability and pulse-wave velocity after spinal cord injury

World Journal of Clinical Cases, 2022 · DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i27.9680 · Published: September 26, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Cardiovascular Science

Simple Explanation

This study looks at how spinal cord injuries (SCI) affect heart function. It uses two measurements: heart rate variability (HRV) and pulse-wave velocity (PWV). HRV shows how well the heart adjusts to different stresses, while PWV measures the stiffness of arteries. The study found that people with SCI have weaker heart function and stiffer arteries compared to those without SCI, suggesting a higher risk of heart problems.

Study Duration

December 7, 2019 to January 21, 2020

Participants

120 (60 with SCI, 60 without SCI)

Evidence Level

Observational Study

Key Findings

1
Patients with SCI exhibited significantly lower SDNN, RMSSD, TP, LF, and HF, indicating weaker cardiac function and reduced sympathetic and parasympathetic activity.
2
SCI patients showed significantly higher PSI and VLF, suggesting higher pressure and lower vitality.
3
Arterial elasticity was generally poorer among those with SCI compared to those without, indicating inferior vasculature.

Research Summary

This study evaluated heart rate variability (HRV) and pulse-wave velocity (PWV) in patients with and without spinal cord injury (SCI) to assess cardiovascular complications. The results showed that SCI patients have weaker sympathetic and parasympathetic activity, as well as lower arterial elasticity, suggesting increased cardiac function loading. The authors suggest that continuous monitoring of HRV and PWV could be integrated into care programs for SCI patients to inform measures to reduce stress and increase vitality.

Practical Implications

Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs

Implementing cardiac rehabilitation programs tailored for SCI patients, focusing on improving cardiac function and vascular health.

Stress Reduction Techniques

Integrating stress reduction techniques (e.g., painting, respiratory training, music therapy, nature therapy) into SCI patient care.

Continuous Monitoring

Integrating continuous dynamic monitoring of HRV and PWV into care programs for SCI patients for early detection of cardiovascular complications.

Altered heart rate variability and pulse-wave velocity after spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs

Stress Reduction Techniques

Continuous Monitoring

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Altered heart rate variability and pulse-wave velocity after spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs

Stress Reduction Techniques

Continuous Monitoring

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?