Application of a virtual reality-enhanced exercise protocol in patients after coronary bypass.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether, by using training enhanced by virtual reality (VR) displays, patients who had undergone coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery could more effectively attain long-term cardiopulmonary results than those not using VR technology.


METHODS
Randomized controlled trial.


METHODS
Exercise testing laboratory in a medical center.


METHODS
Consecutive sample of 32 patients who had undergone CABG surgery.


METHODS
All subjects were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 submaximal endurance programs, with or without simulated training. In all other respects, the 2 programs were identical. Each section lasted for 30 minutes and was conducted twice a week for about 3 months. Graded exercise tests, conducted before and after training, evaluated cardiorespiratory changes.


METHODS
The cardiorespiratory and hemodynamic parameters were evaluated at both peak and submaximal exertion.


RESULTS
At the follow-up exercise tests (performed at 5.4 mo after surgical intervention), the VR group achieved significantly higher value in peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), peak metabolic equivalents (METS), and amount of VO2 at anaerobic threshold than the non-VR group. Significant gain was attained in VO2peak and peak MET value accrued to those who participated in simulation-based aerobic training.


CONCLUSIONS
Our study outcomes clearly support the perceived benefits of rehabilitation programs that incorporate VR to augment patients' recovery of their physical capacity.
Chuang
Tien-Yow
TY
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Taipei Veterans General Hospital and National Yang-Ming University, School of Medicine, Taiwan. tychuang@vghtpe.gov.tw
Sung
Wen-Hsu
WH
Lin
Chih-Yung
CY
D000368:Aged; D015308:Anaerobic Threshold / Q000502:physiology; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass; D015444:Exercise; D005080:Exercise Test; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010101:Oxygen Consumption / Q000502:physiology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D014584:User-Computer Interface