Interval Versus Continuous Training in LVAD Patients

In- and out-patients with left ventricular assist device (LVAD) will be recruited to participate. On consent to participate, patients will be randomized to either moderate continuous (MCT) or interval (IT) training. An initial cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) will be performed to assess exercise intensity levels using a ramp protocol. Baseline quality of life (KCCQ score), echocardiographic and LVAD parameters, lab works, including NTproBNP, a 6min walk distance (6 MWD) will be assessed. Patients will then receive 6 weeks of supervised training in our facility (3x/week, 30min each). Following these sessions CPET, lab works, KCCQ assessment, 6 MWD, and echocardiography will be performed to assess improvement of exercise capacity.

Patients in the MCT group will receive 20min of moderate, continuous bicycle training at an intensity of 50-60% of VO2peak, the IT group will increase exercise density by increasing the duration of intense bouts (80-90% of VO2peak) over the weeks. All groups will receive an additional 10 minutes of resistance training (total exercise time 30 minutes in both groups). Improvement of VO2peak and quality of life (KCCQ score) between the groups will be assessed.

Inclusion criteria

• age>18 years
• clinically stable LVAD patients with terminal heart failure
• written informed consent
• the mental and physical ability to exercise

Exclusion criteria

• established contraindications for exercise testing
• systemic blood stream infection