Rehabilitacja
Second stage of rehabilitation in patients with HeartWare left ventricular support devices

Background: Implantable ventricular assist devices are one of end-state heart failure treatment methods. They are used as
a bridge to transplantation, a bridge to recovery of heart to have time for cardiac regeneration and as a destination therapy. The aim of this study was to assess the second stage of rehabilitation in patients with implantable left ventricular heart devices of the HeartWare type.

Methods: 2 patients aged 47 and 63 years underwent a cardiac rehabilitation program: physical exercises and psychotherapy 3 months after implantation of HeartWare devices. A 6-minute walking test was used to assess the results before and after rehabilitation. Aerobic exercises, resistance training and stationary bicycle training were used during rehabilitation.

Results: Exercise tolerance and psychological state were improved after rehabilitation.