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  4. Movement therapy in advanced heart failure assisted by a lightweight wearable robot: a feasibility pilot study

Movement therapy in advanced heart failure assisted by a lightweight wearable robot: a feasibility pilot study

ESC Heart Failure, 2022 · DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13903 · Published: March 23, 2022

Cardiovascular ScienceAssistive TechnologyRehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This pilot study investigates the use of a lightweight, exoskeleton-type robot (Myosuit) to assist in the mobilization of patients with advanced heart failure. Twenty patients in functional NYHA class III performed activities of daily life or participated in a rehabilitation exercise unit with and without the Myosuit to assess its safety, feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability. The study found that mobilization with the Myosuit was feasible and well-accepted by patients, with no adverse events reported, suggesting the potential for this approach in rehabilitation programs.

Study Duration
From March to July 2021
Participants
20 patients with functional NYHA class III heart failure
Evidence Level
Pilot study

Key Findings

  • 1
    The study demonstrated that mobilization with the Myosuit was feasible for all patients, either independently or with minor support.
  • 2
    No adverse events occurred during the trial, indicating the safety of using the Myosuit for mobilization in this patient population.
  • 3
    The Myosuit was well-tolerated and well-accepted by the patients, with most feeling safe and enjoying the experience, and a high percentage expressing interest in regular robot-assisted training.

Research Summary

This pilot study aimed to evaluate the safety, feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability of using a lightweight exoskeleton robot (Myosuit) to assist mobilization in patients with advanced heart failure. The study involved 20 patients with NYHA class III heart failure, who performed activities of daily living or a standardized rehabilitation exercise unit with and without the Myosuit. The results indicated that the Myosuit-assisted mobilization was safe, feasible, well-tolerated, and well-accepted by the patients, suggesting its potential for use in rehabilitation programs for this population.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Programs

The study supports the use of robotic exoskeletons like the Myosuit in rehabilitation programs for patients with advanced heart failure.

Improved Mobility

The Myosuit could potentially improve mobility and quality of life for heart failure patients by providing assistance during daily activities and exercise.

Home Training

The Myosuit can be used for self-training at home or as an ADL assistive device, providing safety and stability in everyday life.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    The study was conducted in a single center with a small sample size.
  • 2
    The patient population had a limited representation of females (only 20%).
  • 3
    The study's single-session design did not allow for analysis of the long-term advantages or disadvantages of robotic support.

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