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 5.4 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.