The effect of functional electrical stimulation of the legs on cardiopulmonary function and quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
Introduction: Functional electrical stimulation is important for the rehabilitation of patients with chronic heart failure. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials compared the efficacy of functional electrical stimulation versus conventional exercise training or placebo in patients with chronic heart failure. Methods: Studies were searched through PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases up to 1 November 2023. The outcomes were cardiopulmonary function index (6-minute walking distance), peak oxygen consumption, and Minnesota Heart Failure Life Questionnaire quality of life scores. A subgroup analysis was conducted according to the ejection fraction. The 95% confidence interval and mean difference represented the outcome of the effect size. Results: Seventeen studies involving 732 participants were included. Compared with the control, functional electrical stimulation significantly improved peak oxygen consumption (MD = 2.84 ml/kg/min, 95% Cl: 1.99–3.68 ml/kg/min), increased 6-minute walking distance (MD = 49.52 m, 95% Cl: 22.61–76.43 m), and improved the life quality scores (MD = −12.86, 95% Cl: −17.48 to −7.88). Compared with functional electrical stimulation, exercise training also improved peak oxygen consumption (MD = −0.94 ml/kg/min−1, 95% Cl: −1.36 to −0.52 ml/kg/min), and the quality of life (QoL, MD = 0.66, 95% Cl: 0.34–0.98, p < 0.05, I2 = 38%), but the result of 6-minute walking distance (MD = −6.97 m, 95% Cl: −18.32 to −4.38 m) did not show a…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 732 participants or records.
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