Application of a Virtual Reality–Enhanced Exercise Protocol in Patients After Coronary Bypass

Abstract

Chuang T-Y, Sung W-H, Lin C-Y. 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. Design Randomized controlled trial. Setting Exercise testing laboratory in a medical center. Participants Consecutive sample of 32 patients who had undergone CABG surgery. Interventions 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. Main Outcome Measures The cardiorespiratory and hemodynamic parameters were evaluated at both peak and submaximal exertion. Results At the follow-up exercise tests (performed at 5.4mo after surgical intervention), the VR group achieved significantly higher value in peak oxygen consumption (V o 2peak), peak metabolic equivalents (METS), and amount of V o 2 at anaerobic threshold than the non-VR group. Significant gain was attained in V o 2peak 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.