Cardiopulmonary performance testing using a robotics-assisted tilt table: Feasibility assessment in able-bodied subjects

Saengsuwan, Jittima; Laubacher, M; Nef, Tobias; Hunt, KJ (2014). Cardiopulmonary performance testing using a robotics-assisted tilt table: Feasibility assessment in able-bodied subjects. Technology and health care, 22(2), pp. 179-187. IOS Press 10.3233/THC-140783

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BACKGROUND:
Robotics-assisted tilt table technology was introduced for early rehabilitation of neurological patients. It provides cyclical stepping movement and physiological loading of the legs. The aim of the present study was to assess the feasibility of this type of device for peak cardiopulmonary performance testing using able-bodied subjects.
METHODS:
A robotics-assisted tilt table was augmented with force sensors in the thigh cuffs and a work rate estimation algorithm. A custom visual feedback system was employed to guide the subjects' work rate and to provide real time feedback of actual work rate. Feasibility assessment focused on: (i) implementation (technical feasibility), and (ii) responsiveness (was there a measurable, high-level cardiopulmonary reaction?). For responsiveness testing, each subject carried out an incremental exercise test to the limit of functional capacity with a work rate increment of 5 W/min in female subjects and 8 W/min in males.
RESULTS:
11 able-bodied subjects were included (9 male, 2 female; age 29.6 ± 7.1 years: mean ± SD). Resting oxygen uptake (O<formula>_{2}</formula>) was 4.6 ± 0.7 mL/min/kg and O<formula>_{2}</formula>peak was 32.4 ± 5.1 mL/min/kg; this mean O<formula>_{2}</formula>peak was 81.1% of the predicted peak value for cycle ergometry. Peak heart rate (HRpeak) was 177.5 ± 9.7 beats/min; all subjects reached at least 85% of their predicted HRpeak value. Respiratory exchange ratio (RER) at O<formula>_{2}</formula>peak was 1.02 ± 0.07. Peak work rate) was 61.3 ± 15.1 W. All subjects reported a Borg CR10 value for exertion and leg fatigue of 7 or more.
CONCLUSIONS:
The robotics-assisted tilt table is deemed feasible for peak cardiopulmonary performance testing: the approach was found to be technically implementable and substantial cardiopulmonary responses were observed. Further testing in neurologically-impaired subjects is warranted.

Item Type:	Journal Article (Original Article)
Division/Institute:	04 Faculty of Medicine > Department of Head Organs and Neurology (DKNS) > Clinic of Neurology 10 Strategic Research Centers > ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research 10 Strategic Research Centers > ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research > ARTORG Center - Gerontechnology and Rehabilitation
UniBE Contributor:	Saengsuwan, Jittima, Nef, Tobias
Subjects:	500 Science > 570 Life sciences; biology 600 Technology > 610 Medicine & health 600 Technology > 620 Engineering
ISSN:	0928-7329
Publisher:	IOS Press
Language:	English
Submitter:	Vanessa Vallejo
Date Deposited:	03 Oct 2014 13:40
Last Modified:	05 Dec 2022 14:36
Publisher DOI:	10.3233/THC-140783
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Rehabilitation, cardiopulmonary performance testing, rehabilitation robotics, tilt table
URI:	https://boris.unibe.ch/id/eprint/54747