Robotic-assisted Exercise Training in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction

Robotic-assisted Exercise Training in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction

This study will address the challenging task of remobilizing patients with advanced chronic lung or heart failure in a functional New York Heart Association class III-IV by using an externally physically-supported exosuit movement therapy. This soft, wearable robot (Myosuit) assists mobilization according to individual needs by activating neuromuscular feedback systems, promoting physical activity and preventing early physical exhaustion.

The feasibility, tolerance and safety of a Myosuit assisted training was shown in a feasibility trial. In the efficacy trial, patients will be randomized in a 2:1 ratio for an exosuit-supported or non-supported exercise training protocol, training 3 units per week for 8 weeks. Assessment of outcome will be performed by various functional, mobility and endurance tests, questionnaires and clinical parameters. Furthermore, the transfer of regained motor and balance skills to everyday life will be analyzed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• >17 years old
• written informed consent
• chronic end-stage systolic heart failure without ventricular assist device, LVEF ≤ 45%
• clinically stable for at least 6 weeks
• ability to mobilize into standing and walking of at least 10 meters with or without rollator
• ability to get up from a chair without rotating the upper body >45° sagittally

Exclusion Criteria:

• addictions or other illnesses that impact the ability to understand the nature, scope and
• consequences of the trial
• lack of knowledge of German to fully understand study information
• pregnancy, pre-menopausal women
• contraindications of cardiopulmonary exercising
• BMI > 35 kg/m², waist size > 135 cm.
• Height <150 cm, >195 cm
• Weight<45 kg, >110 kg
• Functional Reach Test <15,24 cm
• Flexion contracture in the knee/hip joint >10°
• Chronic colonization or active infection with multi-resistant pathogens