Initial clinical evaluation of a wheelchair ergometer for diagnostic exercise testing: a technical note.
The purpose of this initial study was to evaluate a new wheelchair ergometer (WCE) and exercise test protocol for the detection of coronary artery disease in men with lower limb disabilities. Forty-nine patients (63 +/- 9 yr) completed WCE tests without complications. Peak heart rate was 84 +/- 15% (mean +/- SD) of age-predicted maximum and peak double product was 223 +/- 62 x 10(2). The specified target heart rate (> or = 80% age-predicted maximal) or a positive result was achieved in 76% of tests. Fourteen tests were rated positive, 21 as negative and 14 as nondiagnostic for exercise-induced ischemia. In 18 patients who underwent coronary angiography, the predictive value was 100% (10/10) for a positive, and 50% (2/4) for a negative WCE test result. These results suggest that WCE is a viable initial diagnostic option for some persons who cannot adequately perform treadmill or cycle ergometry exercise.
Langbein
W E
WE
Rehabilitation Research and Development Center, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL 60141.
Maki
K C
KC
Edwards
L C
LC
Hwang
M H
MH
Sibley
P
P
Fehr
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L
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017023:Coronary Angiography; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D005080:Exercise Test / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D014910:Wheelchairs