Efficacy and Safety of Exercise Training in Chronic Pulmonary Hypertension: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The ventilatory efficiency parameters outperform peak oxygen consumption in monitoring the therapy effects in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

AIM

We sought the cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) parameter that most accurately reflected therapeutic efficacy in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

METHODS

Well-being questionnaire, N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide measurements, echocardiography, and CPET were performed in patients with symptomatic non-obstructive HCM during phase II, randomized, open-label multicentre study, before and after 16 weeks of traditional or sacubitril/valsartan treatment. Patients were followed 36 months after the initial CPET. Primary endpoints were changes in: 1) peak oxygen consumption (VO2); 2) VO2 at anaerobic threshold (AT); 3) oxygen pulse; 4) minute ventilation (VE)/carbon-dioxide (CO2) production slope; 5) VE/VCO2 at AT (VE/VCO2_AT); 6) VE/VCO2 nadir; 7) VE/VCO2 intercept; and 8) partial end-tidal pressure of carbon-dioxide (PETCO2) change during CPET.

RESULTS

Of 115 screened patients, 61 (52 ± 14 years, 43 % women) were included. Within subject therapy effects were detected only by the VE/VCO2 intercept and PETCO2 change, whereas the differences between medical regimens were detected by differences in VE/VCO2 nadir and VE/VCO2_AT changes after the treatment. The best predictors of the change in well-being were left ventricular outflow tract maximal gradient and VE/VCO2 intercept (B = 0.41,0.36; SE = 0.16,0.30; CI = 0.14-0.79, 0.15-1.14; p = 0.006,0.016, respectively). Adverse cardiac events were best predicted by the initial VE/VCO2 nadir.

CONCLUSION

Ventilatory efficiency parameters outperform peak VO2 in gauging therapy effects in patients with HCM.

Pulmonary Hypertension: Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Therapies

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a severe and chronic disease characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance and remodeling, often precipitating right-sided heart dysfunction and death. Although the condition is progressive and incurable, current therapies for the disease focus on multiple different drugs and general supportive therapies to manage symptoms and prolong survival, ranging from medications more specific to pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) to exercise training. Moreover, there are multiple studies exploring novel experimental drugs and therapies including unique neurostimulation, to help better manage the disease. Here, we provide a narrative review focusing on current PH treatments that target multiple underlying biochemical mechanisms, including imbalances in vasoconstrictor-vasodilator and autonomic nervous system function, inflammation, and bone morphogenic protein (BMP) signaling. We also focus on the potential of novel therapies for managing PH, focusing on multiple types of neurostimulation including acupuncture. Lastly, we also touch upon the disease's different subgroups, clinical presentations and prognosis, diagnostics, demographics, and cost.

[Pulmonary hypertension in adults with congenital heart disease in light of the 2022-ESC-PAH guidelines - Part II: Supportive therapy, special situations (pregnancy, contraception, non-cardiac surgery), targeted pharmacotherapy, organ transplantation, special management (shunt lesions, left ventricular disorders, univentricular hearts), interventions, intensive care, follow-up, future perspectives]

The number of adults with congenital heart defects (CHD) is steadily rising and amounts to approximately 360,000 in Germany. CHD is often associated with pulmonary hypertension (PH), which may develop early in untreated CHD. Despite timely treatment of CHD, PH not infrequently persists or recurs in older age and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.The revised European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society 2022 guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of PH represent a significant contribution to the optimized care of those affected. However, the topic of "adults with congenital heart disease" is addressed only relatively superficial in these guidelines. Therefore, in the present article, this topic is commented in detail from the perspective of congenital cardiology.

Safety, feasibility and effectiveness of the remotely delivered Pulmonary Hypertension and Home-Based (PHAHB) physical activity intervention

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a heterogeneous condition, associated with a high symptom burden and a substantial loss of exercise capacity. Despite prior safety concerns regarding physical exertion, exercise training as a supportive therapy is now recommended for PH patients. Currently, most programmes are hospital-based, which limits accessibility. There is a need to provide alternative approaches for physical activity engagement for PH patients. The aim of this research was to develop, implement and evaluate the safety, feasibility and effectiveness of home-based physical activity intervention for PH.

Methods

An entirely remotely delivered home-based physical activity intervention underpinned by behaviour change theory and informed by end-users, was assessed using a single-arm feasibility study design. Participants (n=19; 80% female) with a mean±sd age of 49.9±15.9 years with a diagnosis of PH undertook a 10-week, home-based physical activity intervention with induction training, support materials, telecommunication support, health coaching, exercise training and assessments, all remotely delivered. Training involved respiratory training along with a combination of aerobic and resistance exercises.

Results

The intervention was deemed safe as no adverse events were reported. A high level of feasibility was demonstrated as the protocol was implemented as intended, sustained a high level of engagement and adherence and was well accepted by participants in terms of enjoyment and utility. There was a significant improvement in functional capacity, physical activity, exercise self-efficacy and quality of life, between baseline and post-training.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that an entirely remotely delivered home-based physical activity programme is safe, feasible and effective in improving functional capacity, physical activity and quality of life in PH patients.

Management of Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Chronic Lung Disease

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication of chronic lung diseases, particularly in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and interstitial lung diseases (ILD) and especially in advanced disease. It is associated with greater mortality and worse clinical course. Given the high prevalence of some respiratory disorders and because lung parenchymal abnormalities might be present in other PH groups, the appropriate diagnosis of PH associated with respiratory disease represents a clinical challenge. Patients with chronic lung disease presenting symptoms that exceed those expected by the pulmonary disease should be further evaluated by echocardiography. Confirmatory right heart catheterization is indicated in candidates to surgical treatments, suspected severe PH potentially amenable with targeted therapy, and, in general, in those conditions where the result of the hemodynamic assessment will determine treatment options. The treatment of choice for these patients who are hypoxemic is long-term oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation to improve symptoms. Lung transplant is the only curative therapy and can be considered in appropriate cases. Conventional vasodilators or drugs approved for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are not recommended in patients with mild-to-moderate PH because they may impair gas exchange and their lack of efficacy shown in randomized controlled trials. Patients with severe PH (as defined by pulmonary vascular resistance >5 Wood units) should be referred to a center with expertise in PH and lung diseases and ideally included in randomized controlled trials. Targeted PAH therapy might be considered in this subset of patients, with careful monitoring of gas exchange. In patients with ILD, inhaled treprostinil has been shown to improve functional ability and to delay clinical worsening.

Connective tissue disease-associated pulmonary hypertension: A comprehensive review

Connective tissue diseases (CTDs) can be associated with various forms of pulmonary hypertension, including pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), pulmonary veno-occlusive disease, pulmonary venous hypertension, interstitial lung disease-associated pulmonary hypertension, chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, and sometimes a combination of several processes. The prevalence of PAH varies among the different CTDs, with systemic sclerosis (SSc) having the highest at 8%-12%. The most recent European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society guidelines recommend routine annual screening for PAH in SSc and CTDs with SSc features. As CTDs can be associated with a myriad of presentations of pulmonary hypertension, a thorough evaluation to include a right heart catheterization to clearly delineate the hemodynamic profile is essential in developing an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment strategies will depend on the predominant phenotype of pulmonary vasculopathy. In general, management approach to CTD-PAH mirrors that of idiopathic PAH. Despite this, outcomes of CTD-PAH are inferior to those of idiopathic PAH, with those of SSc-PAH being particularly poor. Reasons for this may include extrapulmonary manifestations of CTDs, including renal disease and gastrointestinal involvement, concurrent interstitial lung disease, and differences in the innate response of the right ventricle to increased pulmonary vascular resistance. Early referral for lung transplant evaluation of patients with CTD-PAH, particularly SSc-PAH, is recommended. It is hoped that in the near future, additional therapies may be added to the armamentarium of effective treatments for CTD-PAH. Ultimately, a better understanding of the pathogenesis of CTD-PAH will be required to develop targeted therapies for this morbid condition.

Routine Rehabilitation as a Treatment Component for Patients With Pulmonary Arterial or Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertensions

PURPOSE

Patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) have long been advised to avoid exercise in fear of deterioration in right-sided heart function. Since the 2009 European Society of Cardiology guidelines, rehabilitation in expert centers is considered to have a specific role in care of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). We report routine rehabilitation effects in patients with PH as a component of real-life multimodal treatment.

METHODS

Patients with PAH or CTEPH were recommended for either in- or outpatient rehabilitation in addition to their usual care, unless there were practical problems or the patient declined. Assessment was conducted according to New York Heart Association classes, adverse events, 6 min-walk test, hemodynamics, and risk stratification after rehabilitation.

RESULTS

Forty-one patients, 61% female, age 60 ±18 yr were included between March 2010 and May 2019. No major adverse events or deaths related to progression of right-sided heart failure were reported. Nevertheless, 22% of participants suffered adverse events in most cases not linked with physical activity. Rehabilitation as add-on to medical therapy and/or arterial deobstruction improved New York Heart Association class: mean difference, -0.39 (95% CI, -0.68 to -0.10), 6-min walk test: mean difference, 80 m (95% CI, 46-114), and was associated with improved right-sided heart hemodynamics. The risk assessment grade improved by -0.25 points (95% CI, -0.44 to -0.06) after rehabilitation.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with PAH or CTEPH, supervised rehabilitation as add-on to medical therapy and/or arterial deobstruction is safe and effective in improving patient and clinically related outcomes.

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension and the post-pulmonary embolism (PE) syndrome

Over a third of patients surviving acute pulmonary embolism (PE) will experience long-term cardiopulmonary limitations. Persistent thrombi, impaired gas exchange, and altered hemodynamics account for aspects of the postpulmonary embolism syndrome that spans mild functional limitations to debilitating chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), the most worrisome long-term consequence. Though pulmonary endarterectomy is potentially curative for the latter, less is understood surrounding chronic thromboembolic disease (CTED) and post-PE dyspnea. Advances in pulmonary vasodilator therapies and growing expertise in balloon pulmonary angioplasty provide options for a large group of patients ineligible for surgery, or those with persistent postoperative pulmonary hypertension. In this clinical review, we discuss epidemiology and pathophysiology as well as advances in diagnostics and therapeutics surrounding the spectrum of disease that may follow months after acute PE.

Exercise-based rehabilitation programmes for pulmonary hypertension

BACKGROUND

Individuals with pulmonary hypertension (PH) have reduced exercise capacity and quality of life. Despite initial concerns that exercise training may worsen symptoms in this group, several studies have reported improvements in functional capacity and well-being following exercise-based rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of exercise-based rehabilitation for people with PH compared with usual care or no exercise-based rehabilitation.

SEARCH METHODS

We used standard, extensive Cochrane search methods. The latest search date was 28 June 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in people with PH comparing supervised exercise-based rehabilitation programmes with usual care or no exercise-based rehabilitation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were 1. exercise capacity, 2. serious adverse events during the intervention period and 3. health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Our secondary outcomes were 4. cardiopulmonary haemodynamics, 5. Functional Class, 6. clinical worsening during follow-up, 7. mortality and 8. changes in B-type natriuretic peptide. We used GRADE to assess certainty of evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

We included eight new studies in the current review, which now includes 14 RCTs. We extracted data from 11 studies. The studies had low- to moderate-certainty evidence with evidence downgraded due to inconsistencies in the data and performance bias. The total number of participants in meta-analyses comparing exercise-based rehabilitation to control groups was 462. The mean age of the participants in the 14 RCTs ranged from 35 to 68 years. Most participants were women and classified as Group I pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Study durations ranged from 3 to 25 weeks. Exercise-based programmes included both inpatient- and outpatient-based rehabilitation that incorporated both upper and lower limb exercise. The mean six-minute walk distance following exercise-based rehabilitation was 48.52 metres higher than control (95% confidence interval (CI) 33.42 to 63.62; I² = 72%; 11 studies, 418 participants; low-certainty evidence), the mean peak oxygen uptake was 2.07 mL/kg/min higher than control (95% CI 1.57 to 2.57; I² = 67%; 7 studies, 314 participants; low-certainty evidence) and the mean peak power was 9.69 W higher than control (95% CI 5.52 to 13.85; I² = 71%; 5 studies, 226 participants; low-certainty evidence). Three studies reported five serious adverse events; however, exercise-based rehabilitation was not associated with an increased risk of serious adverse event (risk difference 0, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.03; I² = 0%; 11 studies, 439 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). The mean change in HRQoL for the 36-item Short Form (SF-36) Physical Component Score was 3.98 points higher (95% CI 1.89 to 6.07; I² = 38%; 5 studies, 187 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and for the SF-36 Mental Component Score was 3.60 points higher (95% CI 1.21 to 5.98 points; I² = 0%; 5 RCTs, 186 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). There were similar effects in the subgroup analyses for participants with Group 1 PH versus studies of groups with mixed PH. Two studies reported mean reduction in mean pulmonary arterial pressure following exercise-based rehabilitation (mean reduction: 9.29 mmHg, 95% CI -12.96 to -5.61; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 133 participants; low-certainty evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In people with PH, supervised exercise-based rehabilitation may result in a large increase in exercise capacity. Changes in exercise capacity remain heterogeneous and cannot be explained by subgroup analysis. It is likely that exercise-based rehabilitation increases HRQoL and is probably not associated with an increased risk of a serious adverse events. Exercise training may result in a large reduction in mean pulmonary arterial pressure. Overall, we assessed the certainty of the evidence to be low for exercise capacity and mean pulmonary arterial pressure, and moderate for HRQoL and adverse events. Future RCTs are needed to inform the application of exercise-based rehabilitation across the spectrum of people with PH, including those with chronic thromboembolic PH, PH with left-sided heart disease and those with more severe disease.

Exercise Training in Pulmonary Hypertension: AN UPDATED SYSTEMATIC REVIEW WITH META-ANALYSIS

PURPOSE

Given that previous reviews on exercise training in pulmonary hypertension (PH) were largely based on a small number of randomized controlled trials (RCT), their conclusions are subject to bias. This review sought to identify the impact of exercise training on functional capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in PH using advanced statistical approaches such as meta-analysis by stratification according to study design.

REVIEW METHODS

Five databases were searched from January 2015 to April 2020 to update a previous review. Included articles had data extracted, risk of bias (ROB) assessed, and quality rating performed. Data were analyzed using meta-analysis with a random-effects model for 6-min walk test (6MWT) distance and HRQoL. Heterogeneity was explored using stratified meta-analysis, within patient correlation and meta-regression.

RESULTS

A total of 28 studies (11 RCT, 12 pre-/post-studies, 2 two-group non-RCT, and three case series) consisting of 1264 patients were included. Meta-analysis of six RCT demonstrated an improved 6MWT distance by 49.5 m (95% CI, 27.2-71.8: I2 = 73%; 254 participants; low-moderate ROB) with a low correlation coefficient of 0.34, while the 12 pre-/post-non-RCT showed an improvement of 68.36 m (95% CI, -86.78 to -49.94: I2 = 37%; 746 participants; high ROB) along with improvements in V˙ o2peak (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 3.03 mL/kg/min, 95% CI, 2.17-3.90: I2 = 0%, P = .82), and HRQoL (WMD = 2.74: 95% CI, -0.82 to 6.30). Metaregression showed that the benefit of exercise on 6MWT distance did not significantly vary across the trial study characteristics.

CONCLUSION

This updated review identified an additional body of evidence supporting the efficacy of exercise training on 6MWT distance and HRQoL in stable PH patients. These benefits appeared to be consistent across models of delivery.

Elucidating the Clinical Implications and Pathophysiology of Pulmonary Hypertension in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Call to Action: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association

This science advisory focuses on the need to better understand the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of pulmonary hypertension in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. This clinical phenotype is important because it is common, is strongly associated with adverse outcomes, and lacks evidence-based therapies. Our goal is to clarify key knowledge gaps in pulmonary hypertension attributable to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and to suggest specific, actionable scientific directions for addressing such gaps. Areas in need of additional investigation include refined disease definitions and interpretation of hemodynamics, as well as greater insights into noncardiac contributors to pulmonary hypertension risk, optimized animal models, and further molecular studies in patients with combined precapillary and postcapillary pulmonary hypertension. We highlight translational approaches that may provide important biological insight into pathophysiology and reveal new therapeutic targets. Last, we discuss the current and future landscape of potential therapies for patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and pulmonary vascular dysfunction, including considerations of precision medicine, novel trial design, and device-based therapies, among other considerations. This science advisory provides a synthesis of important knowledge gaps, culminating in a collection of specific research priorities that we argue warrant investment from the scientific community.

Rehabilitation in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension

For patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) there have been no recommendations for physical rehabilitation for a long time, and in fact physical activity was discouraged. Nowadays, the position regarding exercise in patients with PH has changed studies have shown the safety and effectiveness of exercise in these patients. Most of the studies published to date on rehabilitation in patients with PH have assessed its effect on exercise tolerance. This review provides an overview of published studies and their conclusions on the effectiveness of rehabilitation in patients with chronic thromboembolic hypertension being as a complex therapy using medical and surgical methods of treatment and rehabilitation. The inclusion of rehabilitation in complex treatment allows to achieve patients highest possible tolerance to physical activity, increase in the functional class, quality of life and restore working capacity.

Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on exercise capacity in PAH patients

The outbreak of novel coronavirus-19 disease (COVID-19) was classified as a global pandemic thanks to the rapid viral spread, and restrictive policy measures of infection containment, including "lockdown" periods and self-isolation, were first instituted in Belgium from March to June 2020. The consequent reduction in physical activity could have a negative impact on exercise capacity, especially in frail patients with pre-existing chronic diseases, such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). With the aim to define the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on functional status, we included in our observational analysis clinically stable PAH patients, who had performed at least four consecutive 6-min walking tests (6MWT) during 2019-2020, to compare their exercise performance before and after the lockdown. In the 63 patients included, a comparison between the distance covered at 6MWT after the lockdown period and the pooled mean of the previous three 6MWTs showed a mean reduction of 14 m after the lockdown (p = 0.004). Moreover, the mean distance covered at 6MWT went from 447 m in March 2020 to 434 m in June 2020, with a significant average loss of 13 m (p = 0.024). Our results showed that PAH patients were less performing at 6MWT after 3 months of reduced physical activity, despite constant clinical stability and the absence of signs of disease progression, suggesting that this confounding factor should be kept in mind when evaluating changes in 6MWT during or after COVID-19 pandemic.

The Potential Application and Promising Role of Targeted Therapy in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare yet serious progressive disorder that is currently incurable. This female-predominant disease unfolds as a pan-vasculopathy that affects all layers of the vessel wall. Five classes of pharmacological agents currently exist to target the three major cellular signaling pathways identified in PAH but are incapable of effectively reversing the disease progression. While several targets have been identified for therapy, none of the current PAH specific therapies are curative and cost-effective as they fail to reverse vascular remodeling and do not address the cancer-like features of PAH. Our purpose is to review the current literature on the therapeutic management of PAH, as well as the molecular targets under consideration for therapy so as to shed light on the potential role and future promise of novel strategies in treating this high-mortality disease. This review study summarizes and discusses the potential therapeutic targets to be employed against PAH. In addition to the three major conventional pathways already used in PAH therapy, targeting PDGF/PDGFR signaling, regulators in glycolytic metabolism, PI3K/AKT pathways, mitochondrial heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1), and bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) proteins by using their specific inhibitors, or a pharmacological induction of the p53 expression, could be attractive strategies for treating PAH.

Exercise or physical activity-related adverse events in people receiving peritoneal dialysis: A systematic review

People receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD) may benefit from participation in exercise or physical activity. However, exercise therapy for people receiving PD is not typically included in routine care, in part, due to ongoing uncertainties about risk. The aim of this review was to systematically collate and explore data on adverse events experienced by people receiving PD while undertaking an exercise or physical activity intervention. Searches yielded 25 exercise or physical activity intervention studies involving people receiving PD. Of these 25 studies, 17 studies provided adverse event data and were included in the final review. No serious adverse events (e.g. death, hospitalisation) were found attributable to the intervention. From 50 reported adverse events during the intervention period, 32 were attributable to the exercise or physical activity intervention with most being musculoskeletal (e.g. muscle/joint pain, etc.) followed by fatigue. Most events were mild to moderate in severity and resolved by exercise programme modification, education, rest or medication. The results from this review did not uncover signals of harm for people receiving PD who engage in exercise with risk of adverse events appearing to be low, however, improved adverse events reporting and further interventional studies are required before robust guidelines can be produced.

The exercise in pulmonary arterial hypertension (ExPAH) study: A randomized controlled pilot of exercise training and multidisciplinary rehabilitation in pulmonary arterial hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by progressive dyspnea, fatigue, and reduced exercise capacity. Despite medical treatment, outcomes remain poor. While exercise training is well established in patients with heart failure, it is less established in patients with PH. This single-blind, randomized controlled pilot study examined the feasibility and effect of 12-week outpatient exercise (multidisciplinary rehabilitation or home walking program) on hemodynamics using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) and right heart catheterization (RHC) in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a subset of PH. Sixteen participants were randomized to either multidisciplinary outpatient rehabilitation or a home walking program for 12 weeks. Primary outcome measures were changes in right ventricular ejection fraction and stroke volume index on cMRI. Secondary outcome measures included hemodynamics on RHC, quality of life (QOL), muscle strength (handgrip and vital capacity) and 6-min walk test. This preliminary, pilot study suggests that outpatient exercise interventions may be associated with improved hemodynamic function (mean pulmonary artery wedge pressure, stroke volume, and stroke volume index), QOL (PH symptoms, depression, and anxiety), and muscular strength (vital capacity and handgrip strength) for people with PAH, but was not adequately powered to make any formal conclusions. However, our outpatient programs were feasible, safe, and acceptable to participants. Future studies are required to further explore the potential hemodynamic benefits of exercise in PAH.

Standardized exercise training is feasible, safe, and effective in pulmonary arterial and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: results from a large European multicentre randomized controlled trial

AIMS

This prospective, randomized, controlled, multicentre study aimed to evaluate efficacy and safety of exercise training in patients with pulmonary arterial (PAH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).

METHODS AND RESULTS

For the first time a specialized PAH/CTEPH rehabilitation programme was implemented in 11 centres across 10 European countries. Out of 129 enrolled patients, 116 patients (58 vs. 58 randomized into a training or usual care control group) on disease-targeted medication completed the study [85 female; mean age 53.6 ± 12.5 years; mean pulmonary arterial pressure 46.6 ± 15.1 mmHg; World Health Organization (WHO) functional class II 53%, III 46%; PAH n = 98; CTEPH n = 18]. Patients of the training group performed a standardized in-hospital rehabilitation with mean duration of 25 days [95% confidence interval (CI) 17-33 days], which was continued at home. The primary endpoint, change of 6-min walking distance, significantly improved by 34.1 ± 8.3 m in the training compared with the control group (95% CI, 18-51 m; P < 0.0001). Exercise training was feasible, safe, and well-tolerated. Secondary endpoints showed improvements in quality of life (short-form health survey 36 mental health 7.3 ± 2.5, P = 0.004), WHO-functional class (training vs. control: improvement 9:1, worsening 4:3; χ2P = 0.027) and peak oxygen consumption (0.9 ± 0.5 mL/min/kg, P = 0.048) compared with the control group.

CONCLUSION

This is the first multicentre and so far the largest randomized, controlled study on feasibility, safety, and efficacy of exercise training as add-on to medical therapy in PAH and CTEPH. Within this study, a standardized specialized training programme with in-hospital start was successfully established in 10 European countries.

Exercise intolerance in pulmonary arterial hypertension: insight into central and peripheral pathophysiological mechanisms

Exercise intolerance is a cardinal symptom of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and strongly impacts patients' quality of life (QoL). Although central cardiopulmonary impairments limit peak oxygen consumption (V' O2peak ) in patients with PAH, several peripheral abnormalities have been described over the recent decade as key determinants in exercise intolerance, including impaired skeletal muscle (SKM) morphology, convective O2 transport, capillarity and metabolism indicating that peripheral abnormalities play a greater role in limiting exercise capacity than previously thought. More recently, cerebrovascular alterations potentially contributing to exercise intolerance in patients with PAH were also documented. Currently, only cardiopulmonary rehabilitation has been shown to efficiently improve the peripheral components of exercise intolerance in patients with PAH. However, more extensive studies are needed to identify targeted interventions that would ultimately improve patients' exercise tolerance and QoL. The present review offers a broad and comprehensive analysis of the present literature about the complex mechanisms and their interactions limiting exercise in patients and suggests several gaps in knowledge that need to be addressed in the future for a better understanding of exercise intolerance in patients with PAH.

Comparative Effectiveness of Exercise Training for Patients With Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension After Pulmonary Endarterectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) still experience reduced exercise capacity despite pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA). Exercise training improves the exercise capacity and quality of life (QoL) in patients with PH, but data on the effects of exercise training on these patients are scarce. The aim of this meta-analysis and systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of exercise training in CTEPH after PEA. Methods: We searched the relevant literature published before January 2020 for the systematic review and meta-analysis using the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases. The primary outcome was a change in the 6-min walking distance (6 MWD). We also assessed the effect of exercise on the peak oxygen uptake (VO2) or peak VO2/kg, oxygen uptake anaerobic threshold, workload, oxygen pulse, hemodynamics, arterial blood gases, oxygen saturation, N-terminal pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), quality of life (QoL) and pulmonary function tests. Results: We included 4 studies with 208 exercise-training participants. In the pooled analysis, short-term exercise training can improve the 6 MWD of 58.89 m (95% CI: 46.26-71.52 m, P < 0.0001). There was a significant increase in the peak VO2/kg or peak VO2 after exercise training (3.15 ml/min/kg, 95% CI: 0.82-5.48, P = 0.008; 292.69 ml/min, 95% CI: 24.62-560.75, P = 0.032, respectively). After exercise training, the maximal workload and O2 pulse significantly improved. Three months of exercise training increased the right ventricular ejection fraction by 3.53% (95% CI: 6.31-11.94, P < 0.00001, I 2 = 0) independently of PEA surgery. In addition, NT-proBNP plasma levels significantly improved with exercise training after PEA [weighted mean difference (WMD): -524.79 ng/L, 95% CI: 705.16 to -344.42, P < 0.0001, I 2 = 0]. The partial pressure of oxygen and pH improved progressively over 12 weeks of exercise training (WMD: 4 mmHg, 95% CI: 1.01-8.33, P = 0.01; WMD: 0.03, 95% CI: 0.02-0.04, P < 0.0001, respectively). Subscales of the QoL measured by the SF-36 questionnaire had also improved. In addition, exercise training was well-tolerated with a low dropout rate, and no major adverse events occurred during exercise training. Conclusion: Exercise training may be associated with a significant improvement in the exercise capacity and QoL among CTEPH patients after PEA and was proven to be safe. However, more large-scale multicentre studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of exercise training in CTEPH patients after PEA. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021235275.

The Experience, Prerequisites, and the Barriers in Organizing a Specialized Rehabilitation Program for Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a severe progressive disease, associated with reduced exercise capacity and poor quality of life. Although scientific evidence supports the incorporation of specialized training in the treatment of PH, it is only available in a few countries.

OBJECTIVES AND METHODS

This article aims to share the experience of implementing a PH rehabilitation program, to summarize the barriers and prerequisites for launching this service, and to assess its early effect. We retrospectively analyzed our pathway in organizing this program, by singling out essential steps.

RESULTS

The preparation phase took about 14 months. Establishing and running of a PH rehabilitation program required dedicated rehabilitation specialists to join the multidisciplinary PH expert team. Team members needed to gain special knowledge on exercise training in severely compromised patients; thus, supervision and education by experienced consultants was crucial. The main eligibility criteria for patients were stable status, optimal medical treatment, and motivation to undergo the training. The first results evaluating the effect of a specialized PH training program in 9 patients are promising. Seven of them improved their functional capacity over the period of 15 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a number of challenges and barriers, the implementation of a specialized rehabilitation program should be encouraged in a few dedicated PH expert centers per country, who are capable to fulfill all prerequisites and organizational aspects. Local PH experts, supervision by an experienced center, in-patient rehabilitation facilities, dedicated personnel, equipment, and patient motivation are essential.

The benefit of exercise-based rehabilitation programs in patients with pulmonary hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Several studies have suggested that exercise capacity and quality of life are reduced in patients with pulmonary hypertension, and exercise-based rehabilitation can improve exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with pulmonary hypertension. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of exercise-based rehabilitation in patients with pulmonary hypertension through a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. We searched PubMed, Embase, Medline, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to November 2018. All randomized controlled trials comparing exercise capacity and quality of life between patients undergoing exercise-based rehabilitation and those undergoing non-exercise training were included. Data were extracted separately and independently by two investigators, and discrepancies were arbitrated by the third investigator. We used the random-effects model to analyze the results, the GRADE to assess the risk of bias in the included studies, and I² statistic to estimate the degree of heterogeneity. Nine randomized controlled trials are included; however, only seven randomized controlled trials were able to extract data. Including inpatients and outpatients, the total number of participants was 234, most of whom were diagnosed as pulmonary artery hypertension. The study duration ranged from 3 to 15 weeks. The mean six-minute walking distance after exercise training was 51.94 m higher than control (27.65-76.23 m, n = 234, 7 randomized controlled trials, low quality evidence), the mean peak oxygen uptake was 2.96 ml/kg/min higher (2.49-3.43 ml/kg/min, n = 179, 4 randomized controlled trials, low-quality evidence) than in the control group. In conclusion, our finding suggests that an exercise-based training program positively influences exercise capacity in patients with pulmonary hypertension.

Cardiac Rehabilitation in German Speaking Countries of Europe-Evidence-Based Guidelines from Germany, Austria and Switzerland LLKardReha-DACH-Part 1

BACKGROUND

Although cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) is well accepted in general, CR-attendance and delivery still considerably vary between the European countries. Moreover, clinical and prognostic effects of CR are not well established for a variety of cardiovascular diseases.

METHODS

The guidelines address all aspects of CR including indications, contents and delivery. By processing the guidelines, every step was externally supervised and moderated by independent members of the "Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany" (AWMF). Four meta-analyses were performed to evaluate the prognostic effect of CR after acute coronary syndrome (ACS), after coronary bypass grafting (CABG), in patients with severe chronic systolic heart failure (HFrEF), and to define the effect of psychological interventions during CR. All other indications for CR-delivery were based on a predefined semi-structured literature search and recommendations were established by a formal consenting process including all medical societies involved in guideline generation.

RESULTS

Multidisciplinary CR is associated with a significant reduction in all-cause mortality in patients after ACS and after CABG, whereas HFrEF-patients (left ventricular ejection fraction <40%) especially benefit in terms of exercise capacity and health-related quality of life. Patients with other cardiovascular diseases also benefit from CR-participation, but the scientific evidence is less clear. There is increasing evidence that the beneficial effect of CR strongly depends on "treatment intensity" including medical supervision, treatment of cardiovascular risk factors, information and education, and a minimum of individually adapted exercise volume. Additional psychologic interventions should be performed on the basis of individual needs.

CONCLUSIONS

These guidelines reinforce the substantial benefit of CR in specific clinical indications, but also describe remaining deficits in CR-delivery in clinical practice as well as in CR-science with respect to methodology and presentation.

Pulmonary hypertension and home-based (PHAHB) exercise intervention: protocol for a feasibility study

INTRODUCTION

Novel therapies for pulmonary hypertension (PH) have improved survival and slowed disease progression. However, patients still present with symptoms of exertional dyspnoea and fatigue, which impacts their ability to perform activities of daily living, reduces exercise tolerance and impairs their quality of life (QoL). Exercise training has shown to be safe and effective at enhancing QoL and physical function in PH patients, yet it remains an underused adjunct therapy. Most exercise training for PH patients has been offered through hospital-based programmes. Home-based exercise programmes provide an alternative model that has the potential to increase the availability and accessibility of exercise training as an adjunct therapy in PH. The purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility, acceptability, utility and safety of a novel remotely supervised home-based PH exercise programme.

METHODS

Single arm intervention with a pre/post comparisons design and a follow-up maintenance phase will be employed. Eligible participants (n=25) will be recruited from the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital PH Unit. Participants will undergo a 10-week home-based exercise programme, with induction training, support materials, telecommunication support and health coaching sessions followed by a 10-week maintenance phase. The primary outcomes are feasibility, acceptability, utility and safety of the intervention. Secondary outcomes will include the impact of the intervention on exercise capacity, physical activity, strength, health-related QoL and exercise self-efficacy.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval has been obtained from the Mater Misericordiae Institutional Review Board REF:1/378/2032 and Dublin City University Research Ethics DCUREC/2018/246. A manuscript of the results will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal and results will be presented at conferences, community and consumer forums and hospital research conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN83783446; Pre-results.

High Right Ventricular Afterload during Exercise in Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

The right ventricle (RV) is more sensitive to an increase in afterload than the left ventricle (LV), and RV afterload during exercise increases more easily than LV afterload. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)-specific therapy has improved pulmonary hemodynamics at rest; however, the pulmonary hemodynamic response to exercise is still abnormal in most patients with PAH. In these patients, RV afterload during exercise could be higher, resulting in a greater increase in RV wall stress. Recently, an increasing number of studies have indicated the short-term efficacy of exercise training. However, considering the potential risk of promoting myocardial maladaptive remodeling, even low-intensity repetitive exercise training could lead to long-term clinical deterioration. Further studies investigating the long-term effects on the RV and pulmonary vasculature are warranted. Although the indications for exercise training for patients with PAH have been expanding, exercise training may be associated with various risks. Training programs along with risk stratification based on the pulmonary hemodynamic response to exercise may enhance the safety of patients with PAH.

A Mobile Health Intervention to Increase Physical Activity in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

BACKGROUND

Supervised exercise training improves outcomes in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The effect of an unsupervised activity intervention has not been tested.

RESEARCH QUESTION

Can a text-based mobile health intervention increase step counts in patients with PAH?

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a randomized, parallel arm, single-blind clinical trial. We randomized patients to usual care or a text message-based intervention for 12 weeks. The intervention arm received three automated text messages per day with real-time step count updates and encouraging messages rooted in behavioral change theory. Individual step targets increased by 20% every 4 weeks. The primary end point was mean week 12 step counts. Secondary end points included the 6-min walk test, quality of life, right ventricular function, and body composition.

RESULTS

Among 42 randomized participants, the change in raw steps between baseline and week 12 was higher in the intervention group (1,409 steps [interquartile range, -32 to 2,220] vs -149 steps [interquartile range, -1,010 to 735]; P = .02), which persisted after adjustment for age, sex, baseline step counts, and functional class (model estimated difference, 1,250 steps; P = .03). The intervention arm took a higher average number of steps on all days between days 9 and 84 (P < .05, all days). There was no difference in week 12 six-minute walk distance. Analysis of secondary end points suggested improvements in the emPHasis-10 score (adjusted change, -4.2; P = .046), a reduction in visceral fat volume (adjusted change, -170 mL; P = .023), and nearly significant improvement in tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (model estimated difference, 1.2 mm; P = .051).

INTERPRETATION

This study demonstrated the feasibility of an automated text message-based intervention to increase physical activity in patients with PAH. Additional studies are warranted to examine the effect of the intervention on clinical outcomes.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov; No. NCT03069716; URL: www.clinicaltrials.gov.

Long-Term Effect of an Exercise Training Program on Physical Functioning and Quality of Life in Pulmonary Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 6-month combined aerobic and strength exercise training program on functional and psychological aspects and health-related quality of life in patients with PH and to evaluate its longer-term impact. In total, 22 stable patients (mean age 53.9 ± 13.8, 13 female) with pulmonary hypertension of World Health Organization (WHO) class I-III participated in a nine-month study. They were randomly assigned into two groups: Group A participated in a 6-month combined aerobic and strength exercise training program, whereas Group B remained untrained. All patients underwent physical and psychological assessment at baseline and at month 6 (after completing the exercise program) and physical assessment after 9 months (3 months posttraining). After the 6-month exercise training program, patients of Group A significantly improved their physical (6MWD, STS 10 rep, STS 20 rep, TUG, lower limb strength, cardiopulmonary exercise time, METs, peak VO₂, VCO₂, and VE/VCO₂ slope) and psychological aspects (SF-36, STAI, and BDI). Between the two groups, differences were observed at the 6MWD (95% CI: 36.2-64.6, η² = 0.72), STS 10 rep (95% CI: 6.6-2.2, η² = 0.4), STS 20 rep (95% CI: 10.8-2.4, η² = 0.34), lower limb strength (95% CI: 7.2-3.6, η² = 0.38), cardiopulmonary exercise time (95% CI: 0.1-3.3, η² = 0.2), and VCO₂ (95% CI: 0.1-0.5, η² = 0.2). Additionally, psychological changes were noted at SF-36, PCS (95% CI: 3.6-14.8, η² = 0.35), MCS (95% CI: 1.3-16.1, η² = 0.22), TCS (95% CI: 1.3-16.1, η² = 0.22), and STAI (95% CI: 1.8-28.2, η² = 0.18). The favorable results of exercise were maintained at the 3-month posttraining follow-up assessment. No exercise-induced complications were observed throughout the study. In conclusion, a long-term exercise training program is a safe and effective intervention to improve functional status, psychological aspects, and health-related quality of life in patients with PH.

Benefícios do exercício físico na hipertensão arterial pulmonar associada à cardiopatia congênita não corrigida

Introdução: as cardiopatias congênitas são classificadas como um dos principais grupos para desenvolver hipertensão arterial pulmonar. O programa de exercício físico pode auxiliar no aumento da capacidade de vida diária, melhora clínica e funcional, minimizando as consequências deletérias da patologia.Relato do caso: reportamos um caso de um paciente do gênero masculino, 31 anos, com diagnóstico clínico de hipertensão arterial pulmonar grave em decorrência da dupla via de saída do ventrículo direito com comunicação interventricular, sem intervenção cirúrgica. Após ser encaminhado ao programa de Reabilitação Cardiopulmonar e Metabólica em um centro de referência em cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul, foram realizadas avaliações clínicas e, também, da capacidade funcional pelo teste de caminhada de 6 minutos, da força muscular e resistência periférica, pelo teste Sentar-Levantar, e da força muscular respiratória, pelo exame de manovacuometria. Os valores apresentavam-se abaixo do valor previsto. O programa de exercício proposto foi realizado durante 30 sessões constando de exercícios aeróbicos com duração de 33 minutos, combinados ao treino de fortalecimento dos grandes grupos musculares.Conclusão: após o término do programa observou-se um acréscimo de 83 metros no teste de caminhada de 6 minutos e um aumento da força muscular respiratória, assim como, redução redução nos parâmetros da escala de Borg.

Benefícios do exercício físico na hipertensão arterial pulmonar associada à cardiopatia congênita não corrigida

Introdução: as cardiopatias congênitas são classificadas como um dos principais grupos para desenvolver hipertensão arterial pulmonar. O programa de exercício físico pode auxiliar no aumento da capacidade de vida diária, melhora clínica e funcional, minimizando as consequências deletérias da patologia.Relato do caso: reportamos um caso de um paciente do gênero masculino, 31 anos, com diagnóstico clínico de hipertensão arterial pulmonar grave em decorrência da dupla via de saída do ventrículo direito com comunicação interventricular, sem intervenção cirúrgica. Após ser encaminhado ao programa de Reabilitação Cardiopulmonar e Metabólica em um centro de referência em cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul, foram realizadas avaliações clínicas e, também, da capacidade funcional pelo teste de caminhada de 6 minutos, da força muscular e resistência periférica, pelo teste Sentar-Levantar, e da força muscular respiratória, pelo exame de manovacuometria. Os valores apresentavam-se abaixo do valor previsto. O programa de exercício proposto foi realizado durante 30 sessões constando de exercícios aeróbicos com duração de 33 minutos, combinados ao treino de fortalecimento dos grandes grupos musculares.Conclusão: após o término do programa observou-se um acréscimo de 83 metros no teste de caminhada de 6 minutos e um aumento da força muscular respiratória, assim como, redução redução nos parâmetros da escala de Borg.

Exercise Training for Pulmonary Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a chronic disease with a notable health burden; regular exercise may improve specific health outcome measures.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this meta-analysis was to estimate the effectiveness of exercise training for PH patients.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, CINAHL, SportDiscuss and Google Scholar databases and reference lists of included studies were searched.

STUDY SELECTION

The selection criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) employing an exercise training intervention. Data were extracted from the entered studies for analysis. The primary outcomes were peak oxygen uptake (VO_2peak), anaerobic threshold (AT), 6-minute walk distance (6-MWD), and quality of life (QoL) measures (physical component score and mental component score). The analysis included 9 articles with a total of 302 participants: intervention (n = 154), and control (n = 148).

RESULTS

In the pooled analysis, improvements were seen in: VO_2peak, mean difference (MD) 2.79 ml/kg/min (95% CI 2.00 to 3.59, p < 0.00001); AT, MD 107.83 ml/min (95% CI 39.64 to 176.00, p = 0.002); and 6-MWD, MD 46.67 meters (95% CI 32.39 to 60.96, p < 0.00001). Differences were found in the SF-36 physical component score MD 3.57 (95% CI 2.04 to 5.10, p < 0.00001) and the SF-36 mental component score MD 3.92 (95% CI 1.92 to 5.91, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrates exercise training has a beneficial effect on fitness, walking performance, and self-reported QoL in PH patients.

Impact of patient characteristics and perceived barriers on referral to exercise rehabilitation among patients with pulmonary hypertension in the United States

Exercise rehabilitation is underutilized in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension despite improving exercise capacity and quality of life. We sought to understand the association between (1) patient characteristics and (2) patient-perceived barriers and referral to exercise rehabilitation. We performed a cross-sectional survey of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension attending an International PAH meeting. Predictors of referral considered included gender, body mass index, subjective socioeconomic status, insurance type, age, and World Health Organization functional class and perceived barriers assessed using the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale. Among 65 participants, those in the lowest subjective socioeconomic status tertile had reduced odds of referral compared to the highest tertile participants (odds ratio 0.22, 95% confidence interval: 0.05–0.98, p = 0.047). Several patient-perceived barriers were associated with reduced odds of referral. For every 1-unit increase in a reported barrier on a five-point Likert scale, odds of referral were reduced by 85% for my doctor did not feel it was necessary; 85% for prefer to take care of my health alone, not in a group; 78% many people with heart and lung problems don’t go, and they are fine; and 78% for I didn’t know about exercise therapy. The lack of perceived need subscale and overall barriers score were associated with a 92% and 77% reduced odds of referral, respectively. These data suggest the need to explore interventions to promote referral among low socioeconomic status patients and address perceived need for the therapy.

Treatment Targets for Right Ventricular Dysfunction in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Right ventricle (RV) dysfunction is the strongest predictor of mortality in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), but, at present, there are no therapies directly targeting the failing RV. Although there are shared molecular mechanisms in both RV and left ventricle (LV) dysfunction, there are important differences between the 2 ventricles that may allow for the development of RV-enhancing or RV-directed therapies. In this review, we discuss the current understandings of the dysregulated pathways that promote RV dysfunction, highlight RV-enriched or RV-specific pathways that may be of particular therapeutic value, and summarize recent and ongoing clinical trials that are investigating RV function in PAH. It is hoped that development of RV-targeted therapies will improve quality of life and enhance survival for this deadly disease.

Exercise preconditioning prevents left ventricular dysfunction and remodeling in monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension

Background:

Despite pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) directly affects the right ventricle (RV), important structural, functional, and molecular changes also occur in left ventricle (LV). The objective of our study was to analyze the hypothetical cardioprotective effects of exercise preconditioning on LV in rats with monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PAH.

Methods:

Forty male Wistar rats were randomly separated in sedentary (SED) and trained group (EX; running sessions of 60 min/day, 5 days/wk, at 25 m/min, for 4 weeks). After 4 weeks, animals were injected with MCT (60 mg/kg; SED + MCT; EX + MCT) or vehicle (SED + V). Following an additional period of 4 weeks where all animals remained sedentary, we completed LV hemodynamic evaluation in baseline and isovolumic conditions and collected LV samples for histological and molecular analysis.

Results:

Preconditioning with exercise was capable to restore LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction in both baseline and isovolumic conditions (P < .05). This improved was paralleled with prevention of LV cardiomyocytes atrophy, fibrosis, and endothelin 1 mRNA levels (P < .05).

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that exercise preconditioning can prevent LV dysfunction secondary to MCT-induced PAH, which is of particular interest for the familial form of the disease that is manifested by greater severity or earlier onset.

Exercise intolerance establishment in pulmonary hypertension: Preventive effect of aerobic exercise training

AIMS

1) Characterize the progression of exercise intolerance in monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension (PH) in mice and 2) evaluate the therapeutic effect of aerobic exercise training (AET) on counteracting skeletal and cardiac dysfunction in PH.

MAIN METHODS

Wild type C57BL6/J mice were studied in two different time points: 2 months and 4 months. Exercise tolerance was evaluated by graded treadmill exercise test. The AET was performed in the last month of treatment of 4 months' time point. Cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography. Skeletal muscle cross-sectional area was assessed by immunofluorescence. The diameter of cardiomyocytes and pulmonary edema were quantified by staining with hematoxylin-eosin. The variables were compared among the groups by two-way ANOVA or non-paired Student's t-test. Significance level was set at p < 0.05.

KEY FINDINGS

After 2 months of MCT treatment, mice presented pulmonary edema, right cardiac dysfunction and left ventricle hypertrophy. After 4 months of MCT treatment, mice showed pulmonary edema, right and left cardiac dysfunction and remodeling associated with exercise intolerance and skeletal muscle atrophy. AET was able to reverse cardiac left ventricle dysfunction and remodeling, prevent exercise intolerance and skeletal muscle dysfunction. Thus, our data provide evidence of skeletal muscle abnormalities on advanced PH. AET was efficient in inducing an anti-cardiac remodeling effect besides preventing exercise intolerance.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study provides a robust model of PH in mice, as well as highlights the importance of AET as a preventive strategy for exercise intolerance and, skeletal and cardiac muscle abnormalities in PH.

Inspiratory Muscle Training Improves Inspiratory Muscle Strength and Functional Exercise Capacity in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

Exercise intolerance is present even in the early stages of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and is associated with poorer prognosis. Respiratory muscle dysfunction is common and may contribute to exercise limitation. We sought to investigate the effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) to improve exercise capacity in PAH.

METHODS

Adults with PAH were prospectively recruited and randomly assigned to either IMT or a control group. At baseline and after 8 weeks, assessment of respiratory muscle function, pulmonary function, neurohormonal activation, 6-minute walk distance and cardiopulmonary exercise testing variables were conducted. Inspiratory muscle strength was assessed by maximal static inspiratory pressure (PImax). The IMT group performed two cycles of 30 breaths at 30-40% of their PImax 5 days a week for 8 weeks.

RESULTS

Twelve (12) PAH patients (60±14 years, 10 females) were recruited and randomised (six in the IMT group and six in the control group). After 8 weeks, the IMT group improved PImax by 31 cmH₂O compared with 10 cmH₂O in controls, p=0.02. Following IMT, 6-minute walk distance improved by 24.5 m in the IMT group and declined by 12 m in the controls (mean difference 36.5 m, 95% CI 3.5-69.5, p=0.03). There was no difference in peak oxygen uptake between-groups (mean difference 0.4 mL/kg/min, 95% CI -2.6 to 3.4, p=0.77). There was no difference in the mean change between-groups in neurohormonal activation or pulmonary function.

CONCLUSION

In this pilot randomised controlled study, IMT improved PImax and 6-minute walk distance in PAH patients.

Effects of exercise rehabilitation training on patients with pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) comprises a group of pathophysiological syndromes characterized by elevated pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance, which lead to right ventricular overload, and even right heart failure. PH has a poor prognosis and severely leads to a decline in quality of life. Historically, patients with PH were advised to limit their physical activity. However, an increasing number of studies have reported the safety and efficacy of exercise rehabilitation training in PH. This review briefly examined and summarized the effects of exercise rehabilitation training on PH patients reported in the recent literature. The findings of the reviewed studies indicate that exercise rehabilitation training in PH patients has beneficial effects in terms of exercise capacity and quality of life, vascular and right ventricle remodelling, inflammatory response, muscular function and oxidative stress. However, the underlying mechanisms and appropriate exercise strategies (e.g. the duration and intensity of exercise) still need to be explored. In conclusion, exercise rehabilitation training of the appropriate intensity and frequency can improve the prognosis and quality of life of PH patients. The training should be monitored by professional staff and be provided as an adjunct to pharmacological treatment. Larger clinical trials are required to confirm the safety and efficacy of exercise rehabilitation training in PH.

Outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Patients with Persisting Symptoms after Pulmonary Embolism

Background: Patients with pulmonary embolism (PE) may suffer from long-term consequences, including decreased functional capacity. Data on pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in patients with PE are scarce, and no data on outpatient PR are available so far. Methods: We analyzed data of 22 PE patients who attended outpatient PR due to exertional dyspnea. Patients underwent a multi-professional 6-week PR program. The primary outcome was change in 6-min walk test (6MWT). Secondary outcomes included changes in strength and endurance tests. To assess long-term benefits, follow-up was performed a median of 39 months after PR. Results: Patients started PR a median of 19 weeks after the acute PE event. Their median age was 47.5 years, 33% were women and all presented with NYHA (New York Heart Association) class II and higher. After PR, patients showed significant and clinically relevant improvements in 6MWT (mean difference: 49.4 m [95% CI 32.0−66.8]). Similarly, patients increased performance in maximum strength, endurance and inspiratory muscle strength. At long-term follow-up, 78% of patients reported improved health. Conclusion: We observed significant improvements in exercise capacity in PE patients undergoing outpatient PR. The majority of patients also reported a long-term improvement in health status. Prospective studies are needed to identify patients who would benefit most from structured PR.

Effects of Different Types of Exercise Training on Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Systematic Review

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) represents a chronic progressive disease characterized by high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries leading to right heart failure. The disease has been a focus of medical research for many years due to its worse prognosis and limited treatment options. The aim of this study was to systematically assess the effects of different types of exercise interventions on PAH. Electronic databases were searched until July 2019. MEDLINE database was used as the predominant source for this paper. Studies with regards to chronic physical activity in adult PAH patients are compared on retrieving evidence on cellular, physiological, and psychological alterations in the PAH setting. Twenty human studies and 12 rat trials were identified. Amongst all studies, a total of 628 human subjects and 614 rats were examined. Regular physical activity affects the production of nitric oxygen and attenuates right ventricular hypertrophy. A combination of aerobic, anaerobic, and respiratory muscle training induces the strongest improvement in functional capacity indicated by an increase of 6 MWD and VO₂peak. In human studies, an increase of quality of life was found. Exercise training has an overall positive effect on the physiological and psychological components of PAH. Consequently, PAH patients should be encouraged to take part in regular exercise training programs.

Attitudes towards exercise among medical specialists who manage patients with pulmonary hypertension

Exercise training was not traditionally recommended for patients with pulmonary hypertension. However, recent work has demonstrated that exercise improves endurance and quality-of-life in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Unfortunately, patients with pulmonary hypertension are often sedentary. While some studies have examined patient attitudes to exercise, none have investigated physician perspectives on exercise in patients with pulmonary hypertension. This multinational survey of physicians involved in treating patients with pulmonary hypertension sought to ascertain physician attitudes to exercise and physician-identified barriers and enablers of exercise in this patient population. We collected cross-sectional survey data from a cohort of 280 physicians, including rehabilitation physicians, cardiologists, respiratory physicians and rheumatologists. We found that overall, 86% physicians recommended exercise, in line with current guidelines, although there were differences in the rationale for prescribing exercise and in the type of exercise prescription. Barriers to exercise included patient-related factors, such as patient ill health preventing exercise; poor patient motivation and lack of understanding regarding the benefits of exercise. Systemic barriers included cost/funding issues and limited availability of appropriate services. Perceived enablers of exercise included access to appropriate programmes, provision of education and supportive treating clinicians. Further research is required to identify and implement interventions to promote physical activity in patients with pulmonary hypertension.

Effectiveness and safety of exercise training and rehabilitation in pulmonary hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a chronic progressive disease characterized by increasing pulmonary vascular resistance, poor prognosis and high disability rate. Although many targeted drugs for PH have been put to clinical use, most patients still have poor exercise tolerance and quality of life. Exercise training is considered to further improve exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with PH, but it has not been fully studied and utilized. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of exercise training in patients with PH.

Methods

A search was conducted for the meta-analysis using the databases PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, including literature published before December 2018. The primary outcome of this meta-analysis was a change in the 6-minute walk distance (6MWD). In addition, peak oxygen uptake (PeakVO₂), resting pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP_rest), resting heart rate (HR_rest), peak exercise heart rate (HR_peak), oxygen uptake anaerobic threshold (VO₂ at AT), maximum workload and quality of life (QoL) were also assessed.

Results

A total of 651 patients in 17 studies were included. A meta-analysis showed that exercise training was associated with significant improvement in the 6MWD [weighted mean difference (WMD): 64.75 m (95% CI: 53.19–76.31 m, P<0.001)], peakVO₂ [WMD: 1.78 mL/min/kg (95% CI: 1.27–2.29 mL/min/kg, P<0.001)], HR_peak [WMD: 11.07 beats/min (95% CI: 8.04–14.11 beats/min, P<0.001)] and QoL measured by SF-36 questionnaire subscale scores. Furthermore, exercise training is well tolerated, and no major adverse event occurred related to exercise training.

Conclusions

Exercise training is associated with a significant improvement in exercise capacity, cardiorespiratory fitness and quality of life among patients with PH and proved to be safe for stable PH patients with optimization of medical therapy. However, more large-scale multicenter studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of exercise training in patients with PH.

The role of cardiopulmonary exercise testing and training in patients with pulmonary hypertension: making the case for this assessment and intervention to be considered a standard of care

Introduction: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a broad pathophysiological disorder primarily characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance due to multiple possible etiologies. Patients typically present with multiple complaints that worsen as disease severity increases. Although initially discouraged due to safety concerns, exercise interventions for patients with PH have gained wide interest and multiple investigations have established the effective role of exercise training in improving the clinical profile, exercise tolerance, and overall quality of life.Areas covered: In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology of PH during rest and exercise, the role of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) in the diagnosis and prognosis of PAH, the role of exercise interventions in this patient population, and the expected physiological adaptations to exercise training.Expert opinion: Exercise testing, in particular CPX, provides a wealth of clinically valuable information in the PH population. Moreover, the available evidence strongly supports the safety and efficacy of exercise training as a clinical tool in improving exercise tolerance and quality of life. Although clinical trials investigating the role of exercise in this PH population are relatively few compared to other chronic conditions, current available evidence supports the clinical implementation of exercise training as a safe and effective treatment modality.

Hypertension prevalence in patients attending tertiary pain management services, a registry-based Australian cohort study

Persistent pain and hypertension often co-occur, and share several biological and lifestyle risk factors. The present study aimed to provide insight into the prevalence of, and factors associated with, hypertension in the largest cohort of patients seeking treatment in 43 tertiary pain clinics in Australia. Adults aged > = 18 years registered to the electronic Persistent Pain Outcomes Collaboration registry between 2013 and 2018 were included if they had persistent non-cancer pain (N = 43,789). Risk Ratios (RRs) compared prevalence of self-reported hypertension with the general and primary care Australian populations, and logistic regression examined factors associated with hypertension. One in four (23.9%) patients had hypertension, which was higher than the Australian adult population (2014–15: RR = 5.86, 95%CI: 5.66, 6.06; 2017–18: RR = 9.40, 95%CI: 9.01, 9.80), and in primary care patients (2011–13: RR = 1.17, 95%CI: 1.15, 1.20). Adjusting for covariates, patients with higher odds of hypertension were older, lived in regions with higher socioeconomic disadvantage, had higher levels of BMI, were born outside the Oceania/Australasia region, and had comorbid arthritis, diabetes, or severe-extremely severe anxiety symptoms. Female patients and those with depression symptoms had lower adjusted odds. Unadjusted analyses showed an association between widespread pain, pain duration, pain severity and interference, and lower pain self-efficacy with hypertension; however, only pain severity remained significant in adjusted analyses. Hypertension was more prevalent in people with persistent pain than in the general community, was associated with more severe pain, and commonly co-occurred with pain-related impairments. Routine hypertension screening and treatment targeting shared mechanisms of hypertension and pain may improve treatment outcomes in the pain clinic setting.

Exploring a physiotherapy well-being review to deliver community-based rehabilitation in patients with pulmonary hypertension

BACKGROUND

Highly structured, supervised exercise training has been shown to be beneficial in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Despite evidence of the effectiveness of community-based rehabilitation in other cardiopulmonary diseases, there are limited data in patients with pulmonary hypertension.

METHODS

This prospective study evaluated the intervention of a physiotherapist well-being review in patients with pulmonary hypertension who had been established on targeted drug therapy for between 3 and 12 months. The intervention included a detailed consultation assessing functional, social and motivational status to identify individual patient rehabilitation goals and facilitate tailored referrals to community-based services.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-eight patients (79% pulmonary arterial hypertension, 17% chronic thromboembolic disease), age 67 ± 14 years, diagnosed over a one year period were evaluated between July 2017 and January 2018. Fifty-two per cent of patients were referred to community-based pulmonary rehabilitation programmes, 19% received other forms of community rehabilitation, 17% were given exercise advice, 5% had an assessment of social support and 7% declined any intervention. At the end of the study, 32% of patients were undertaking independent exercise.

CONCLUSION

This study has identified that the majority of patients with pulmonary hypertension who are optimised on targeted drug therapy have rehabilitation needs. The use of a physiotherapy well-being review can identify this need and facilitate access to community-based rehabilitation. Further research is required to evaluate the efficacy of such interventions in pulmonary hypertension.

Exercise-Based Rehabilitation to Improve Exercise Capacity and Quality of Life in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

<LEAP> highlights the findings and application of Cochrane reviews and other evidence pertinent to the practice of physical therapy. The Cochrane Library is a respected source of reliable evidence related to health care. Cochrane systematic reviews explore the evidence for and against the effectiveness and appropriateness of interventions-medications, surgery, education, nutrition, exercise-and the evidence for and against the use of diagnostic tests for specific conditions. Cochrane reviews are designed to facilitate the decisions of clinicians, patients, and others in health care by providing a careful review and interpretation of research studies published in the scientific literature. Each article in this PTJ series summarizes a Cochrane review or other scientific evidence on a single topic and presents clinical scenarios based on real patients or programs to illustrate how the results of the review can be used to directly inform clinical decisions. This article focuses on people diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Can exercise-based rehabilitation programs improve exercise capacity and quality of life in people with pulmonary arterial hypertension?

The role of rehabilitation in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The current review summarizes the latest evidence of the effects of exercise training for pulmonary hypertension patients demonstrated by six randomized controlled trails and 20 further studies. As the availability of exercise training is still limited it is important to raise awareness of the body of evidence showing the benefit for the patients and the limitations.

RECENT FINDINGS

The effects of exercise training on exercise capacity, hemodynamics as well as quality of life are described as well as different settings and components of exercise training. Associated adverse events are critically reviewed and strategies for avoidance of these events discussed. Lastly, the most important issues of availability and reimbursement of a specialized exercise training program are examined and the future path is outlined to improve patient access.

SUMMARY

The latest publications on this topic strengthen the call for international multicenter randomized controlled trials to establish the feasibility of exercise training in different healthcare systems and to enhance patient access to these programs.

Effects of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation on pulmonary arterial hypertension: A prospective, randomized study

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the effects of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation (CPR) on cardiopulmonary function, quality of life, depression, and hemodynamic parameters in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and to compare the efficacy of hospital- and home-based exercise programs.

Patients and methods

Between December 2014 to May 2016, a total of 30 patients with PAH were included in the study. The patients were randomly assigned to either a hospital-based (n=15) or home-based exercise program (n=15). The hospital group was assigned to a cardiac rehabilitation (three days/week, 1 hour/week 50 to 70% maximal oxygen uptake [PvO₂]) program for eight weeks. The home-based exercise group received home exercises alone. Before and after eight weeks of rehabilitation, all patients were evaluated for their functional status (PvO₂), pulmonary function including forced expiratory volume in one sec (FEV1), mL, forced vital capacity (FVC), mL and FEV1/FVC%, quality of life using Short Form-36 (SF-36), depression severity using Beck Depression Inventory, and hemodynamic parameters including left ventricular ejection fraction, right ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular end-systolic diameter, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, and systolic pulmonary arterial pressure.

Results

Of the patients, 12 completed the study in each group. There was no statistically significant difference in the functional status, quality of life, depression severity, and hemodynamic parameters after the rehabilitation compared baseline between the groups.

Conclusion

Based on our study results, short-term CPR seems not to be beneficial in patients with PAH. We recommend long-term rehabilitation programs to achieve more benefits from aerobic exercise training in this patient population.

Effects of home-based exercise training on functional outcomes and quality of life in patients with pulmonary hypertension: A randomized clinical trial

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of home-based exercise training (HBET) on function and quality of life (QoL) in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH).

Methods

A prospective, nonblinded, randomized clinical trial was carried out on 84 medically stable patients with PH belonging to any functional class or etiology and of either sex. Patients were randomized to either standard care or HBET. Both groups also received education using the Pulmonary Hypertension Manual (PulHMan). Outcomes included functional capacity from 6-min walk distance (6MWD), QoL using the Medical Outcomes Survey Short Form – 36, functional class (FC), and right heart indices (right ventricular systolic pressure [RVSP] and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion [TAPSE]) and were assessed at entry and after 12 weeks.

Results

HBET improved 6MWD by 48.5 m and 13 m in the experimental and control groups, respectively (p < 0.001). QoL showed statistical improvements after HBET between the groups for the physical and mental components and for the various subdomains (except body pain). Furthermore, FC improved by one grade with HBET (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

HBET program improved functional capacity, QoL, and FC in patients with PH.