Effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on functional capacity and quality of life among patients after cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Issue 2 (February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, Xu; Peng, Yanchun; Zhong, Fuxiu; Li, Sailan; Huang, Xizhen; Huang, Qubo; Chen, Liangwan; Lin, Yanjuan
• Is Part Of: Journal of cardiology. Volume 79:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 291
• Page End: 298
• Publication Date: 2022-02
• Subjects: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation -- Cardiac surgery -- Physical function -- Quality of life; Cardiology -- Periodicals; 616.12
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jjcc.2021.09.019
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0914-5087

Abstract

Highlights: Existing evidence suggests that neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is safe and more effective for improving knee extensor strength than the usual group. The effect of NMES on 6-minute walking distance, grip strength, walking speed, and quality of life is less clear. Abstract: Background: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a possible adjunctive therapy applied to cardiac surgery patients to improve physical function, but the results are still controversial. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the effects of NMES on functional capacity and quality of life (QoL) in cardiac surgery patients. Methods: The following databases PubMed, Embase, Medicine, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for the English language from inception up to March 2021. A systematic targeted literature search evaluating the effects of NMES on physical function and QoL in cardiac surgery patients. The effect size of NMES was presented as the mean difference (MD)/standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval using fixed/random effect models according to heterogeneity. Two reviewers independently screened and appraised each study by using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Results: Six studies were included involving 400 cardiac surgery patients. The meta-analysis showed that NMES had effect on knee extensor strength (SMD=1.68; p =0.05), but had no effects on 6-minute walking distance (MD=44.08; p =0.22), walking speed (MD=0.05; p =0.24), grip strength (MD=3.01; p =0.39), or QoL (SMD=0.53; p =0.19). Conclusions: NMES use in cardiac surgery patients is limited by low to moderate quality. Existing evidence shows that NMES is safe and effective for improving knee extensor strength. Graphical abstract: Image, graphical abstract