@article{DobberkeBaritelloHadzicetal.2022, author = {Dobberke, Jeanette and Baritello, Omar and Hadzic, Miralem and V{\"o}ller, Heinz and Eichler, Sarah and Salzwedel, Annett}, title = {Test-retest reliability of center of pressure measures for postural control assessment in older cardiac patients}, series = {Gait \& posture : official journal of Gait and Clinical Movement Analysis Society (GCMAS) and European Society of Movement Analysis in Adults and Children (ESMAC)}, volume = {92}, journal = {Gait \& posture : official journal of Gait and Clinical Movement Analysis Society (GCMAS) and European Society of Movement Analysis in Adults and Children (ESMAC)}, publisher = {Elsevier Science}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0966-6362}, doi = {10.1016/j.gaitpost.2021.12.011}, pages = {359 -- 363}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Background Elderly patients are a growing population in cardiac rehabilitation (CR). As postural control declines with age, assessment of impaired balance is important in older CR patients in order to predict fall risk and to initiate counteracting steps. Functional balance tests are subjective and lack adequate sensitivity to small differences, and are further subject to ceiling effects. A quantitative approach to measure postural control on a continuous scale is therefore desirable. Force plates are already used for this purpose in other clinical contexts, therefore could be a promising tool also for older CR patients. However, in this population the reliability of the assessment is not fully known. Research question Analysis of test-retest reliability of center of pressure (CoP) measures for the assessment of postural control using a force plate in older CR patients. Methods 156 CR patients (> 75 years) were enrolled. CoP measures (path length (PL), mean velocity (MV), and 95\% confidence ellipse area (95CEA)) were analyzed twice with an interval of two days in between (bipedal narrow stance, eyes open (EO) and closed (EC), three trials for each condition, 30 s per trial), using a force plate. For test-retest reliability estimation absolute differences (\& UDelta;: T0-T1), intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) with 95\% confidence intervals, standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change were calculated. Results Under EO condition ICC were excellent for PL and MV (0.95) and good for 95CEA (0.88) with \& UDelta; of 10.1 cm (PL), 0.3 cm/sec (MV) and 1.5 cm(2 )(95CEA) respectively. Under EC condition ICC were excellent (> 0.95) for all variables with larger \& UDelta; (PL: 21.7 cm; MV: 0.7 cm/sec; 95CEA: 2.4 cm(2)) Significance In older CR patients, the assessment of CoP measures using a force plate shows good to excellent test retest reliability.}, language = {en} } @article{BaritelloSalzwedelSuendermannetal.2021, author = {Baritello, Omar and Salzwedel, Annett and S{\"u}ndermann, Simon and Niebauer, Josef and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {The Pandora's Box of frailty assessments: Which is the best for clinical purposes in TAVI patients? A critical review}, series = {Journal of Clinical Medicine}, volume = {10}, journal = {Journal of Clinical Medicine}, edition = {19}, publisher = {MDPI}, address = {Basel, Schweiz}, issn = {2077-0383}, doi = {10.3390/jcm10194506}, pages = {1 -- 17}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Frailty assessment is recommended before elective transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) to determine post-interventional prognosis. Several studies have investigated frailty in TAVI-patients using numerous assessments; however, it remains unclear which is the most appropriate tool for clinical practice. Therefore, we evaluate which frailty assessment is mainly used and meaningful for ≤30-day and ≥1-year prognosis in TAVI patients. Randomized controlled or observational studies (prospective/retrospective) investigating all-cause mortality in older (≥70 years) TAVI patients were identified (PubMed; May 2020). In total, 79 studies investigating frailty with 49 different assessments were included. As single markers of frailty, mostly gait speed (23 studies) and serum albumin (16 studies) were used. Higher risk of 1-year mortality was predicted by slower gait speed (highest Hazard Ratios (HR): 14.71; 95\% confidence interval (CI) 6.50-33.30) and lower serum albumin level (highest HR: 3.12; 95\% CI 1.80-5.42). Composite indices (five items; seven studies) were associated with 30-day (highest Odds Ratio (OR): 15.30; 95\% CI 2.71-86.10) and 1-year mortality (highest OR: 2.75; 95\% CI 1.55-4.87). In conclusion, single markers of frailty, in particular gait speed, were widely used to predict 1-year mortality. Composite indices were appropriate, as well as a comprehensive assessment of frailty. View Full-Text}, language = {en} } @article{SalzwedelVoeller2021, author = {Salzwedel, Annett and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Cardiac rehabilitation}, series = {Deutsches {\"A}rzteblatt international : a weekly online journal of clinical medicine and public health}, volume = {118}, journal = {Deutsches {\"A}rzteblatt international : a weekly online journal of clinical medicine and public health}, number = {29-30}, publisher = {Dt. {\"A}rzte-Verl.}, address = {Cologne}, organization = {OutCaRe Investigators}, issn = {1866-0452}, doi = {10.3238/arztebl.m2021.0211}, pages = {505 -- 506}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @article{SalzwedelHeidlerMengetal.2020, author = {Salzwedel, Annett and Heidler, Maria-Dorothea and Meng, Karin and Schikora, Martin and Wegscheider, Karl and Reibis, Rona Katharina and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Impact of cognitive performance on disease-related knowledge six months after multi-component rehabilitation in patients after an acute cardiac event}, series = {European journal of preventive cardiology : the official ESC journal for primary \& secondary cardiovascular prevention, rehabilitation and sports cardiology}, volume = {26}, journal = {European journal of preventive cardiology : the official ESC journal for primary \& secondary cardiovascular prevention, rehabilitation and sports cardiology}, number = {1}, publisher = {Sage Publ.}, address = {London}, issn = {2047-4873}, doi = {10.1177/2047487318791609}, pages = {46 -- 55}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Background Although associations between cardiovascular diseases and cognitive impairment are well known, the impact of cognitive performance on the success of patient education as a core component of cardiac rehabilitation remains insufficiently investigated so far. Design Prospective observational study in two inpatient cardiac rehabilitation centres between September 2014 and August 2015 with a follow-up six months after cardiac rehabilitation. Method At admission to and discharge from cardiac rehabilitation, the cognitive performance of 401 patients (54.5 ± 6.3 years, 80\% men) following an acute coronary syndrome and/or coronary artery bypass graft was tested using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Patients' disease-related knowledge was determined using a quiz (22 items for medical knowledge and 12 items for healthy lifestyle and behaviour) at both times and at follow-up. The change in knowledge after cardiac rehabilitation was analysed in multivariable regression models. Potentially influencing parameters (e.g. level of education, medication, cardiovascular risk factors, coronary artery bypass graft, comorbidities, exercise capacity) were considered. Results During cardiac rehabilitation, disease-related knowledge was significantly enhanced in both scales. At follow-up, the average level of medical knowledge was significantly reduced, while lifestyle knowledge remained at a stable level. The maintenance of knowledge after cardiac rehabilitation was predominantly predicted by prior knowledge, cognitive performance at discharge from cardiac rehabilitation and, in the case of medical knowledge, by coronary artery bypass graft. Conclusion Patient education in cardiac rehabilitation led to enhanced disease-related knowledge, but the maintenance of this essentially depended on patients' cognitive performance, especially after coronary artery bypass graft. Therefore, patient education concepts in cardiac rehabilitation should be reconsidered and adjusted as needed.}, language = {en} } @article{SalzwedelKoranLangheimetal.2020, author = {Salzwedel, Annett and Koran, Iryna and Langheim, Eike and Schlitt, Axel and Nothroff, J{\"o}rg and Bongarth, Christa and Wrenger, Markus and Sehner, Susanne and Reibis, Rona Katharina and Wegscheider, Karl and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Patient-reported outcomes predict return to work and health-related quality of life six months after cardiac rehabilitation}, series = {PLoS ONE}, volume = {15}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, number = {5}, publisher = {Plos 1}, address = {San Francisco}, issn = {1932-6203}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0232752}, pages = {17}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Background Multi-component cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is performed to achieve an improved prognosis, superior health-related quality of life (HRQL) and occupational resumption through the management of cardiovascular risk factors, as well as improvement of physical performance and patients' subjective health. Out of a multitude of variables gathered at CR admission and discharge, we aimed to identify predictors of returning to work (RTW) and HRQL 6 months after CR. Design Prospective observational multi-centre study, enrolment in CR between 05/2017 and 05/2018. Method Besides general data (e.g. age, sex, diagnoses), parameters of risk factor management (e.g. smoking, hypertension), physical performance (e.g. maximum exercise capacity, endurance training load, 6-min walking distance) and patient-reported outcome measures (e.g. depression, anxiety, HRQL, subjective well-being, somatic and mental health, pain, lifestyle change motivation, general self-efficacy, pension desire and self-assessment of the occupational prognosis using several questionnaires) were documented at CR admission and discharge. These variables (at both measurement times and as changes during CR) were analysed using multiple linear regression models regarding their predictive value for RTW status and HRQL (SF-12) six months after CR. Results Out of 1262 patients (54±7 years, 77\% men), 864 patients (69\%) returned to work. Predictors of failed RTW were primarily the desire to receive pension (OR = 0.33, 95\% CI: 0.22-0.50) and negative self-assessed occupational prognosis (OR = 0.34, 95\% CI: 0.24-0.48) at CR discharge, acute coronary syndrome (OR = 0.64, 95\% CI: 0.47-0.88) and comorbid heart failure (OR = 0.51, 95\% CI: 0.30-0.87). High educational level, stress at work and physical and mental HRQL were associated with successful RTW. HRQL was determined predominantly by patient-reported outcome measures (e.g. pension desire, self-assessed health prognosis, anxiety, physical/mental HRQL/health, stress, well-being and self-efficacy) rather than by clinical parameters or physical performance. Conclusion Patient-reported outcome measures predominantly influenced return to work and HRQL in patients with heart disease. Therefore, the multi-component CR approach focussing on psychosocial support is crucial for subjective health prognosis and occupational resumption.}, language = {en} } @article{SalzwedelJensenRauchetal.2020, author = {Salzwedel, Annett and Jensen, Katrin and Rauch, Bernhard and Doherty, Patrick and Metzendorf, Maria-Inti and Hackbusch, Matthes and V{\"o}ller, Heinz and Schmid, Jean-Paul and Davos, Constantinos H.}, title = {Effectiveness of comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation in coronary artery disease patients treated according to contemporary evidence based medicine}, series = {European journal of preventive cardiology : the official ESC journal for primary \& secondary cardiovascular prevention, rehabilitation and sports cardiology}, volume = {27}, journal = {European journal of preventive cardiology : the official ESC journal for primary \& secondary cardiovascular prevention, rehabilitation and sports cardiology}, number = {16}, publisher = {Oxford Univ. Press}, address = {Oxford}, organization = {Univ Heidelberg Heinrich Heine Univ}, issn = {2047-4873}, doi = {10.1177/2047487320905719}, pages = {1756 -- 1774}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Background Despite numerous studies and meta-analyses the prognostic effect of cardiac rehabilitation is still under debate. This update of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Outcome Study (CROS II) provides a contemporary and practice focused approach including only cardiac rehabilitation interventions based on published standards and core components to evaluate cardiac rehabilitation delivery and effectiveness in improving patient prognosis. Design A systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods Randomised controlled trials and retrospective and prospective controlled cohort studies evaluating patients after acute coronary syndrome, coronary artery bypass grafting or mixed populations with coronary artery disease published until September 2018 were included. Resulte Based on CROS inclusion criteria out of 7096 abstracts six additional studies including 8671 patients were identified (two randomised controlled trials, two retrospective controlled cohort studies, two prospective controlled cohort studies). In total, 31 studies including 228,337 patients were available for this meta-analysis (three randomised controlled trials, nine prospective controlled cohort studies, 19 retrospective controlled cohort studies; 50,653 patients after acute coronary syndrome 14,583, after coronary artery bypass grafting 163,101, mixed coronary artery disease populations; follow-up periods ranging from 9 months to 14 years). Heterogeneity in design, cardiac rehabilitation delivery, biometrical assessment and potential confounders was considerable. Controlled cohort studies showed a significantly reduced total mortality (primary endpoint) after cardiac rehabilitation participation in patients after acute coronary syndrome (prospective controlled cohort studies: hazard ratio (HR) 0.37, 95\% confidence interval (CI) 0.20-0.69; retrospective controlled cohort studies HR 0.64, 95\% CI 0.53-0.76; prospective controlled cohort studies odds ratio 0.20, 95\% CI 0.08-0.48), but the single randomised controlled trial fulfilling the CROS inclusion criteria showed neutral results. Cardiac rehabilitation participation was also associated with reduced total mortality in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting (retrospective controlled cohort studies HR 0.62, 95\% CI 0.54-0.70, one single randomised controlled trial without fatal events), and in mixed coronary artery disease populations (retrospective controlled cohort studies HR 0.52, 95\% CI 0.36-0.77; two out of 10 controlled cohort studies with neutral results). Conclusion CROS II confirms the effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation participation after acute coronary syndrome and after coronary artery bypass grafting in actual clinical practice by reducing total mortality under the conditions of current evidence-based coronary artery disease treatment. The data of CROS II, however, underscore the urgent need to define internationally accepted minimal standards for cardiac rehabilitation delivery as well as for scientific evaluation.}, language = {en} } @article{ZochLesniakDobberkeSchlittetal.2020, author = {Zoch-Lesniak, Beate and Dobberke, Jeanette and Schlitt, Axel and Bongarth, Christa and Glatz, Johannes and Sp{\"o}rl-D{\"o}nch, Sieglinde and Koran, Iryna and V{\"o}ller, Heinz and Salzwedel, Annett}, title = {Performance Measures for Short-Term Cardiac Rehabilitation in Patients of Working Age}, series = {Archives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation}, volume = {2}, journal = {Archives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {2590-1095}, doi = {10.1016/j.arrct.2020.100043}, pages = {14}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Objective: To determine immediate performance measures for short-term, multicomponent cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in clinical routine in patients of working age, taking into account cardiovascular risk factors, physical performance, social medicine, and subjective health parameters and to explore the underlying dimensionality. Design: Prospective observational multicenter register study in 12 rehabilitation centers throughout Germany. Setting: Comprehensive 3-week CR.}, language = {en} } @article{KatherHadzicHehleetal.2020, author = {Kather, Fritz and Hadzic, Miralem and Hehle, Teresa and Eichler, Sarah and Klein, Julia and V{\"o}ller, Heinz and Salzwedel, Annett}, title = {Test-retest reliability of the Mini Nutritional Assessment- Short Form (MNA-SF) in older patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation}, series = {Journal of geriatric cardiology}, volume = {17}, journal = {Journal of geriatric cardiology}, number = {9}, publisher = {English China Online Journals, ECOJ}, address = {Windsor [u.a.]}, issn = {1671-5411}, doi = {10.11909/j.issn.1671-5411.2020.09.007}, pages = {574 -- 579}, year = {2020}, language = {en} } @article{EichlerVoellerReibisetal.2020, author = {Eichler, Sarah and V{\"o}ller, Heinz and Reibis, Rona Katharina and Wegscheider, Karl and Butter, Christian and Harnath, Axel and Salzwedel, Annett}, title = {Geriatric or cardiac rehabilitation?}, series = {BMC Cardiovascular Disorders}, volume = {20}, journal = {BMC Cardiovascular Disorders}, publisher = {BioMed Central}, address = {London}, issn = {1471-2261}, doi = {10.1186/s12872-020-01452-x}, pages = {9}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Background Aim of the study was to find predictors of allocating patients after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) to geriatric (GR) or cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and describe this new patient group based on a differentiated characterization. Methods From 10/2013 to 07/2015, 344 patients with an elective TAVI were consecutively enrolled in this prospective multicentric cohort study. Before intervention, sociodemographic parameters, echocardiographic data, comorbidities, 6-min walk distance (6MWD), quality of life and frailty (score indexing activities of daily living [ADL], cognition, nutrition and mobility) were documented. Out of these, predictors for assignment to CR or GR after TAVI were identified using a multivariable regression model. Results After TAVI, 249 patients (80.7 ± 5.1 years, 59.0\% female) underwent CR (n = 198) or GR (n = 51). GR patients were older, less physically active and more often had a level of care, peripheral artery disease as well as a lower left ventricular ejection fraction. The groups also varied in 6MWD. Furthermore, individual components of frailty revealed prognostic impact: higher values in instrumental ADL reduced the probability for referral to GR (OR:0.49, p <  0.001), while an impaired mobility was positively associated with referral to GR (OR:3.97, p = 0.046). Clinical parameters like stroke (OR:0.19 of GR, p = 0.038) and the EuroSCORE (OR:1.04 of GR, p = 0.026) were also predictive. Conclusion Advanced age patients after TAVI referred to CR or GR differ in several parameters and seem to be different patient groups with specific needs, e.g. regarding activities of daily living and mobility. Thus, our data prove the eligibility of both CR and GR settings.}, language = {en} } @article{SalzwedelReibisHeidleretal.2019, author = {Salzwedel, Annett and Reibis, Rona Katharina and Heidler, Maria-Dorothea and Wegscheider, Karl and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Determinants of Return to Work After Multicomponent Cardiac Rehabilitation}, series = {Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation}, volume = {100}, journal = {Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation}, number = {12}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Philadelphia}, issn = {0003-9993}, doi = {10.1016/j.apmr.2019.04.003}, pages = {2399 -- 2402}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Objectives: To explore predictors of return to work in patients after acute coronary syndrome and coronary artery bypass grafting, taking into account cognitive performance, depression, physical capacity, and self-assessment of the occupational prognosis. Design: Observational, prospective, bicentric. Setting: Postacute 3-week inpatient cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Participants: Patients (N=401) <65 years of age (mean 54.5 +/- 6.3y), 80\% men. Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Status of return to work (RTW) 6 months after discharge from CR. Results: The regression model for RTW showed negative associations for depression (odds ratio 0.52 per SD, 95\% confidence interval 0.36-0.76, P=.001), age (odds ratio 0.72, 95\% confidence interval 0.52-1.00, P=.047), and in particular for a negative subjective occupational prognosis (expected incapacity for work odds ratio 0.19, 95\% confidence interval 0.06-0.59, P=.004; unemployment odds ratio 0.08, 95\% confidence interval 0.01-0.72, P=.024; retirement odds ratio 0.07, 95\% confidence interval 0.01-0.067, P=.021). Positive predictors were employment before the cardiac event (odds ratio 9.66, 95\% confidence interval 3.10-30.12, P<.001), capacity to work (fit vs unfit) at discharge from CR (odds ratio 3.15, 95\% confidence interval 1.35-7.35, P=.008), and maximum exercise capacity (odds ratio 1.49, 95\% confidence interval 1.06-2.11, P=.022). Cognitive performance had no effect.}, language = {en} } @article{EichlerSalzwedelRabeetal.2019, author = {Eichler, Sarah and Salzwedel, Annett and Rabe, Sophie and Mueller, Steffen and Mayer, Frank and Wochatz, Monique and Hadzic, Miralem and John, Michael and Wegscheider, Karl and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {The Effectiveness of Telerehabilitation as a Supplement to Rehabilitation in Patients After Total Knee or Hip Replacement}, series = {JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies}, volume = {6}, journal = {JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies}, number = {2}, publisher = {jmir rehab}, address = {Toronto}, issn = {2369-2529}, doi = {10.2196/14236}, pages = {12}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Background: Telerehabilitation can contribute to the maintenance of successful rehabilitation regardless of location and time. The aim of this study was to investigate a specific three-month interactive telerehabilitation routine regarding its effectiveness in assisting patients with physical functionality and with returning to work compared to typical aftercare. Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate a specific three-month interactive telerehabilitation with regard to effectiveness in functioning and return to work compared to usual aftercare. Methods: From August 2016 to December 2017, 111 patients (mean 54.9 years old; SD 6.8; 54.3\% female) with hip or knee replacement were enrolled in the randomized controlled trial. At discharge from inpatient rehabilitation and after three months, their distance in the 6-minute walk test was assessed as the primary endpoint. Other functional parameters, including health related quality of life, pain, and time to return to work, were secondary endpoints. Results: Patients in the intervention group performed telerehabilitation for an average of 55.0 minutes (SD 9.2) per week. Adherence was high, at over 75\%, until the 7th week of the three-month intervention phase. Almost all the patients and therapists used the communication options. Both the intervention group (average difference 88.3 m; SD 57.7; P=.95) and the control group (average difference 79.6 m; SD 48.7; P=.95) increased their distance in the 6-minute-walk-test. Improvements in other functional parameters, as well as in quality of life and pain, were achieved in both groups. The higher proportion of working patients in the intervention group (64.6\%; P=.01) versus the control group (46.2\%) is of note. Conclusions: The effect of the investigated telerehabilitation therapy in patients following knee or hip replacement was equivalent to the usual aftercare in terms of functional testing, quality of life, and pain. Since a significantly higher return-to-work rate could be achieved, this therapy might be a promising supplement to established aftercare.}, language = {en} } @article{SalzwedelReibisHadzicetal.2019, author = {Salzwedel, Annett and Reibis, Rona Katharina and Hadzic, Miralem and Buhlert, Hermann and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Patients' expectations of returning to work, co-morbid disorders and work capacity at discharge from cardiac rehabilitation}, series = {Vascular Health and Risk Management}, volume = {15}, journal = {Vascular Health and Risk Management}, publisher = {Dove Medical Press}, address = {Albany, Auckland}, issn = {1176-6344}, doi = {10.2147/VHRM.S216039}, pages = {301 -- 308}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Objective: We aimed to characterize patients after an acute cardiac event regarding their negative expectations around returning to work and the impact on work capacity upon discharge from cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Methods: We analyzed routine data of 884 patients (52±7 years, 76\% men) who attended 3 weeks of inpatient CR after an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or cardiac surgery between October 2013 and March 2015. The primary outcome was their status determining their capacity to work (fit vs unfit) at discharge from CR. Further, sociodemographic data (eg, age, sex, and education level), diagnoses, functional data (eg, exercise stress test and 6-min walking test [6MWT]), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and self-assessment of the occupational prognosis (negative expectations and/or unemployment, W{\"u}rzburger screening) at admission to CR were considered. Results: A negative occupational prognosis was detected in 384 patients (43\%). Out of these, 368 (96\%) expected not to return to work after CR and/or were unemployed before CR at 29\% (n=113). Affected patients showed a reduced exercise capacity (bicycle stress test: 100 W vs 118 W, P<0.01; 6MWT: 380 m vs 421 m, P<0.01) and were more likely to receive a depression diagnosis (12\% vs 3\%, P<0.01), as well as higher levels on the HADS. At discharge from CR, 21\% of this group (n=81) were fit for work (vs 35\% of patients with a normal occupational prognosis (n=175, P<0.01)). Sick leave before the cardiac event (OR 0.4, 95\% CI 0.2-0.6, P<0.01), negative occupational expectations (OR 0.4, 95\% CI 0.3-0.7, P<0.01) and depression (OR 0.3, 95\% CI 0.1-0.8, P=0.01) reduced the likelihood of achieving work capacity upon discharge. In contrast, higher exercise capacity was positively associated. Conclusion: Patients with a negative occupational prognosis often revealed a reduced physical performance and suffered from a high psychosocial burden. In addition, patients' occupational expectations were a predictor of work capacity at discharge from CR. Affected patients should be identified at admission to allow for targeted psychosocial care.}, language = {en} } @article{SalzwedelWegscheiderSchulzBehrendtetal.2019, author = {Salzwedel, Annett and Wegscheider, Karl and Schulz-Behrendt, Claudia and D{\"o}rr, Gesine and Reibis, Rona Katharina and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {No impact of an extensive social intervention program on return to work and quality of life after acute cardiac event: a cluster-randomized trial in patients with negative occupational prognosis}, series = {International archives of occupational and environmental health}, volume = {92}, journal = {International archives of occupational and environmental health}, number = {8}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {New York}, issn = {0340-0131}, doi = {10.1007/s00420-019-01450-3}, pages = {1109 -- 1120}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Objectives To examine the effectiveness of extensive social therapy intervention during inpatient multi-component cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on return to work and quality of life in patients with low probability of work resumption after an acute cardiac event. Methods Patients after acute cardiac event with negative subjective expectations about return to work or unemployment (n = 354) were included and randomized in clusters of 3-6 study participants. Clusters were randomized for social counseling and therapy led by a social worker, six sessions of 60 min each in 3 weeks, or control group (usual care: individual counseling meeting by request). The return to work (RTW) status and change in quality of life (QoL, short form 12: Physical and Mental Component Summary PCS and MCS) 12 months after discharge from inpatient CR were outcome measures. Results The regression model for RTW showed no impact of the intervention (OR 1.1, 95\% CI 0.6-2.1, P = 0.79; n = 263). Predictors were unemployment prior to CR as well as higher anxiety values at discharge from CR. Likewise, QoL was not improved by social therapy (linear mixed model: Delta PCS 0.3, 95\% CI - 1.9 to 2.5; P = 0.77; n = 177; Delta MCS 0.7, 95\% CI - 1.9 to 3.3; P = 0.58; n = 215). Conclusions In comparison to usual care, an intensive program of social support for patients during inpatient cardiac rehabilitation after an acute cardiac event had no additional impact on either the rate of resuming work or quality of life.}, language = {en} } @article{ReibisSalzwedelAbreuetal.2019, author = {Reibis, Rona Katharina and Salzwedel, Annett and Abreu, Ana and Corra, Ugo and Davos, Constantinos and D{\"o}hner, Wolfram and Doherty, Patrick and Frederix, Ines and Hansen, Dominique and Iliou, Marie Christine and Vigorito, Carlo and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {The importance of return to work}, series = {European journal of preventive cardiology : the official ESC journal for primary \& secondary cardiovascular prevention, rehabilitation and sports cardiology}, volume = {26}, journal = {European journal of preventive cardiology : the official ESC journal for primary \& secondary cardiovascular prevention, rehabilitation and sports cardiology}, number = {13}, publisher = {Sage Publ.}, address = {London}, organization = {EAPC}, issn = {2047-4873}, doi = {10.1177/2047487319839263}, pages = {1358 -- 1369}, year = {2019}, abstract = {The vocational reintegration of patients after an acute coronary syndrome is a crucial step towards complete convalescence from the social as well as the individual point of view. Return to work rates are determined by medical parameters such as left ventricular function, residual ischaemia and heart rhythm stability, as well as by occupational requirement profile such as blue or white collar work, night shifts and the ability to commute (which is, in part, determined by physical fitness). Psychosocial factors including depression, self-perceived health situation and pre-existing cognitive impairment determine the reintegration rate to a significant extent. Patients at risk of poor vocational outcomes should be identified in the early period of rehabilitation to avoid a reintegration failure and to prevent socio-professional exclusion with adverse psychological and financial consequences. A comprehensive healthcare pathway of acute coronary syndrome patients is initiated by cardiac rehabilitation, which includes specific algorithms and assessment tools for risk stratification and occupational restitution. As the first in its kind, this review addresses determinants and legal aspects of reintegration of patients experiencing an acute coronary syndrome, and offers practical advice on reintegration strategies particularly for vulnerable patients. It presents different approaches and scientific findings in the European countries and serves as a recommendation for action.}, language = {en} } @article{EichlerSalzwedelHarnathetal.2018, author = {Eichler, Sarah and Salzwedel, Annett and Harnath, Axel and Butter, Christian and Wegscheider, Karl and Chiorean, Mihai and V{\"o}ller, Heinz and Reibis, Rona Katharina}, title = {Nutrition and mobility predict all-cause mortality in patients 12 months after transcatheter aortic valve implantation}, series = {Clinical research in cardiology : official journal of the German Cardiac Society.}, volume = {107}, journal = {Clinical research in cardiology : official journal of the German Cardiac Society.}, number = {4}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Heidelberg}, issn = {1861-0684}, doi = {10.1007/s00392-017-1183-1}, pages = {304 -- 311}, year = {2018}, abstract = {The aim of the study was to determine pre-interventional predictors for all-cause mortality in patients after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with a 12-month follow-up. From 10/2013 to 07/2015, 344 patients (80.9 +/- 5.0 years, 44.5\% male) with an elective TAVI were consecutively enrolled prospectively in a multicentre cohort study. Prior to the intervention, sociodemographic parameters, echocardiographic data and comorbidities were documented. All patients performed a 6-min walk test, Short Form 12 and a Frailty Index (score consisting of activities of daily living, cognition, nutrition and mobility). Peri-interventional complications were documented. Vital status was assessed over telephone 12 months after TAVI. Predictors for all-cause mortality were identified using a multivariate regression model. At discharge, 333 patients were alive (in-hospital mortality 3.2\%; n = 11). During a follow-up of 381.0 +/- 41.9 days, 46 patients (13.8\%) died. The non-survivors were older (82.3 +/- 5.0 vs. 80.6 +/- 5.1 years; p = 0.035), had a higher number of comorbidities (2.6 +/- 1.3 vs. 2.1 +/- 1.3; p = 0.026) and a lower left ventricular ejection fraction (51.0 +/- 13.6 vs. 54.6 +/- 10.6\%; p = 0.048). Additionally, more suffered from diabetes mellitus (60.9 vs. 44.6\%; p = 0.040). While the global Frailty Index had no predictive power, its individual components, particularly nutrition (OR 0.83 per 1 pt., CI 0.72-0.95; p = 0.006) and mobility (OR 5.12, CI 1.64-16.01; p = 0.005) had a prognostic impact. Likewise, diabetes mellitus (OR 2.18, CI 1.10-4.32; p = 0.026) and EuroSCORE (OR 1.21 per 5\%, CI 1.07-1.36; p = 0.002) were associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality. Besides EuroSCORE and diabetes mellitus, nutrition status and mobility of patients scheduled for TAVI offer prognostic information for 1-year all-cause mortality and should be advocated in the creation of contemporary TAVI risk scores.}, language = {en} } @article{HeidlerSalzwedelJoebgesetal.2018, author = {Heidler, Maria-Dorothea and Salzwedel, Annett and J{\"o}bges, Michael and L{\"u}ck, Olaf and Dohle, Christian and Seifert, Michael and von Helden, Andrea and Hollweg, Wibke and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Decannulation of tracheotomized patients after long-term mechanical ventilation - results of a prospective multicentric study in German neurological early rehabilitation hospitals}, series = {BMC Anesthesiology}, volume = {18}, journal = {BMC Anesthesiology}, publisher = {BMC}, address = {London}, issn = {1471-2253}, doi = {10.1186/s12871-018-0527-3}, pages = {7}, year = {2018}, abstract = {Background: In the course of neurological early rehabilitation, decannulation is attempted in tracheotomized patients after weaning due to its considerable prognostic significance. We aimed to identify predictors of a successful tracheostomy decannulation. Methods: From 09/2014 to 03/2016, 831 tracheotomized and weaned patients (65.4 +/- 12.9 years, 68\% male) were included consecutively in a prospective multicentric observation study. At admission, sociodemographic and clinical data (e.g. relevant neurological and internistic diseases, duration of mechanical ventilation, tracheotomy technique, and nutrition) as well as functional assessments (Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R), Early Rehabilitation Barthel Index, Bogenhausener Dysphagia Score) were collected. Complications and the success of the decannulation procedure were documented at discharge. Results: Four hundred seventy patients (57\%) were decannulated. The probability of decannulation was significantly negatively associated with increasing age (OR 0.68 per SD = 12.9 years, p < 0.001), prolonged duration of mechanical ventilation (OR 0.57 per 33.2 days, p < 0.001) and complications. An oral diet (OR 3.80; p < 0.001) and a higher alertness at admission (OR 3.07 per 7.18 CRS-R points; p < 0.001) were positively associated. Conclusions: This study identified practically measurable predictors of decannulation, which in the future can be used for a decannulation prognosis and supply optimization at admission in the neurological early rehabilitation clinic.}, language = {en} } @article{EichlerRabeSalzwedeletal.2017, author = {Eichler, Sarah and Rabe, Sophie and Salzwedel, Annett and Mueller, Steffen and Stoll, Josefine and Tilgner, Nina and John, Michael and Wegscheider, Karl and Mayer, Frank and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Effectiveness of an interactive telerehabilitation system with home-based exercise training in patients after total hip or knee replacement: study protocol for a multicenter, superiority, no-blinded randomized controlled trial}, series = {Trials}, volume = {18}, journal = {Trials}, publisher = {BioMed Central}, address = {London}, issn = {1745-6215}, doi = {10.1186/s13063-017-2173-3}, pages = {7}, year = {2017}, abstract = {Background: Total hip or knee replacement is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures. Physical rehabilitation following total hip or knee replacement is an essential part of the therapy to improve functional outcomes and quality of life. After discharge from inpatient rehabilitation, a subsequent postoperative exercise therapy is needed to maintain functional mobility. Telerehabilitation may be a potential innovative treatment approach. We aim to investigate the superiority of an interactive telerehabilitation intervention for patients after total hip or knee replacement, in comparison to usual care, regarding physical performance, functional mobility, quality of life and pain. Methods/design: This is an open, randomized controlled, multicenter superiority study with two prospective arms. One hundred and ten eligible and consenting participants with total knee or hip replacement will be recruited at admission to subsequent inpatient rehabilitation. After comprehensive, 3-week, inpatient rehabilitation, the intervention group performs a 3-month, interactive, home-based exercise training with a telerehabilitation system. For this purpose, the physiotherapist creates an individual training plan out of 38 different strength and balance exercises which were implemented in the system. Data about the quality and frequency of training are transmitted to the physiotherapist for further adjustment. Communication between patient and physiotherapist is possible with the system. The control group receives voluntary, usual aftercare programs. Baseline assessments are investigated after discharge from rehabilitation; final assessments 3 months later. The primary outcome is the difference in improvement between intervention and control group in 6-minute walk distance after 3 months. Secondary outcomes include differences in the Timed Up and Go Test, the Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test, the Stair Ascend Test, the Short-Form 36, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and postural control as well as gait and kinematic parameters of the lower limbs. Baseline-adjusted analysis of covariance models will be used to test for group differences in the primary and secondary endpoints. Discussion: We expect the intervention group to benefit from the interactive, home-based exercise training in many respects represented by the study endpoints. If successful, this approach could be used to enhance the access to aftercare programs, especially in structurally weak areas.}, language = {en} } @article{SalzwedelHeidlerHauboldetal.2017, author = {Salzwedel, Annett and Heidler, Maria-Dorothea and Haubold, Kathrin and Schikora, Martin and Reibis, Rona Katharina and Wegscheider, Karl and J{\"o}bgens, Michael and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Prevalence of mild cognitive impairment in employable patients after acute coronary event in cardiac rehabilitation}, series = {Vascular Health and Risk Management}, volume = {13}, journal = {Vascular Health and Risk Management}, publisher = {Dove Medical Press Ltd}, address = {Albany, Auckland}, issn = {1176-6344}, doi = {10.2147/VHRM.S121086}, pages = {55 -- 60}, year = {2017}, abstract = {Introduction: Adequate cognitive function in patients is a prerequisite for successful implementation of patient education and lifestyle coping in comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs. Although the association between cardiovascular diseases and cognitive impairments (CIs) is well known, the prevalence particularly of mild CI in CR and the characteristics of affected patients have been insufficiently investigated so far. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 496 patients (54.5 ± 6.2 years, 79.8\% men) with coronary artery disease following an acute coronary event (ACE) were analyzed. Patients were enrolled within 14 days of discharge from the hospital in a 3-week inpatient CR program. Patients were tested for CI using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) upon admission to and discharge from CR. Additionally, sociodemographic, clinical, and physiological variables were documented. The data were analyzed descriptively and in a multivariate stepwise backward elimination regression model with respect to CI. Results: At admission to CR, the CI (MoCA score < 26) was determined in 182 patients (36.7\%). Significant differences between CI and no CI groups were identified, and CI group was associated with high prevalence of smoking (65.9 vs 56.7\%, P = 0.046), heavy (physically demanding) workloads (26.4 vs 17.8\%, P < 0.001), sick leave longer than 1 month prior to CR (28.6 vs 18.5\%, P = 0.026), reduced exercise capacity (102.5 vs 118.8 W, P = 0.006), and a shorter 6-min walking distance (401.7 vs 421.3 m, P = 0.021) compared to no CI group. The age- and education-adjusted model showed positive associations with CI only for sick leave more than 1 month prior to ACE (odds ratio [OR] 1.673, 95\% confidence interval 1.07-2.79; P = 0.03) and heavy workloads (OR 2.18, 95\% confidence interval 1.42-3.36; P < 0.01). Conclusion: The prevalence of CI in CR was considerably high, affecting more than one-third of cardiac patients. Besides age and education level, CI was associated with heavy workloads and a longer sick leave before ACE.}, language = {en} } @article{EichlerSalzwedelReibisetal.2017, author = {Eichler, Sarah and Salzwedel, Annett and Reibis, Rona and Nothroff, J{\"o}rg and Harnath, Axel and Schikora, Martin and Butter, Christian and Wegscheider, Karl and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Multicomponent cardiac rehabilitation in patients after transcatheter aortic valve implantation}, series = {European journal of preventive cardiology : the official ESC journal for primary \& secondary cardiovascular prevention, rehabilitation and sports cardiology}, volume = {24}, journal = {European journal of preventive cardiology : the official ESC journal for primary \& secondary cardiovascular prevention, rehabilitation and sports cardiology}, number = {3}, publisher = {Sage Publ.}, address = {London}, issn = {2047-4873}, doi = {10.1177/2047487316679527}, pages = {257 -- 264}, year = {2017}, abstract = {Background: In the last decade, transcatheter aortic valve implantation has become a promising treatment modality for patients with aortic stenosis and a high surgical risk. Little is known about influencing factors of function and quality of life during multicomponent cardiac rehabilitation. Methods: From October 2013 to July 2015, patients with elective transcatheter aortic valve implantation and a subsequent inpatient cardiac rehabilitation were enrolled in the prospective cohort multicentre study. Frailty-Index (including cognition, nutrition, autonomy and mobility), Short Form-12 (SF-12), six-minute walk distance (6MWD) and maximum work load in bicycle ergometry were performed at admission and discharge of cardiac rehabilitation. The relation between patient characteristics and improvements in 6MWD, maximum work load or SF-12 scales were studied univariately and multivariately using regression models. Results: One hundred and thirty-six patients (80.6 +/- 5.0 years, 47.8\% male) were enrolled. 6MWD and maximum work load increased by 56.3 +/- 65.3 m (p < 0.001) and 8.0 +/- 14.9 watts (p < 0.001), respectively. An improvement in SF-12 (physical 2.5 +/- 8.7, p = 0.001, mental 3.4 +/- 10.2, p = 0.003) could be observed. In multivariate analysis, age and higher education were significantly associated with a reduced 6MWD, whereas cognition and obesity showed a positive predictive value. Higher cognition, nutrition and autonomy positively influenced the physical scale of SF-12. Additionally, the baseline values of SF-12 had an inverse impact on the change during cardiac rehabilitation. Conclusions: Cardiac rehabilitation can improve functional capacity as well as quality of life and reduce frailty in patients after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. An individually tailored therapy with special consideration of cognition and nutrition is needed to maintain autonomy and empower octogenarians in coping with challenges of everyday life.}, language = {en} } @article{ReibisKuehlSalzwedeletal.2017, author = {Reibis, Rona Katharina and K{\"u}hl, Uwe and Salzwedel, Annett and Rasawieh, Mortesa and Eichler, Sarah and Wegscheider, Karl and V{\"o}ller, Heinz}, title = {Return to work in heart failure patients with suspected viral myocarditis}, series = {SAGE Open Medicine}, volume = {5}, journal = {SAGE Open Medicine}, publisher = {Sage}, address = {Thousand Oaks, Calif.}, issn = {2050-3121}, doi = {10.1177/2050312117744978}, year = {2017}, abstract = {Background: Endomyocardial biopsy is considered as the gold standard in patients with suspected myocarditis. We aimed to evaluate the impact of bioptic findings on prediction of successful return to work. Methods: In 1153 patients (48.9 ± 12.4 years, 66.2\% male), who were hospitalized due to symptoms of left heart failure between 2005 and 2012, an endomyocardial biopsy was performed. Routine clinical and laboratory data, sociodemographic parameters, and noninvasive and invasive cardiac variables including endomyocardial biopsy were registered. Data were linked with return to work data from the German statutory pension insurance program and analyzed by Cox regression. Results: A total of 220 patients had a complete data set of hospital and insurance information. Three quarters of patients were virus-positive (54.2\% parvovirus B19, other or mixed infection 16.7\%). Mean invasive left ventricular ejection fraction was 47.1\% ± 18.6\% (left ventricular ejection fraction <45\% in 46.3\%). Return to work was achieved after a mean interval of 168.8 ± 347.7 days in 220 patients (after 6, 12, and 24 months in 61.3\%, 72.2\%, and 76.4\%). In multivariate regression analysis, only age (per 10 years, hazard ratio, 1.27; 95\% confidence interval, 1.10-1.46; p = 0.001) and left ventricular ejection fraction (per 5\% increase, hazard ratio, 1.07; 95\% confidence interval, 1.03-1.12; p = 0.002) were associated with increased, elevated work intensity (heavy vs light, congestive heart failure, 0.58; 95\% confidence interval, 0.34-0.99; p < 0.049) with decreased probability of return to work. None of the endomyocardial biopsy-derived parameters was significantly associated with return to work in the total group as well as in the subgroup of patients with biopsy-proven myocarditis. Conclusion: Added to established predictors, bioptic data demonstrated no additional impact for return to work probability. Thus, socio-medical evaluation of patients with suspected myocarditis furthermore remains an individually oriented process based primarily on clinical and functional parameters.}, language = {en} }