Using Wearable Devices to Monitor Physical Activity in Patients Undergoing Aortic Valve Replacement: Protocol for a...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering and Health Technology
• Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Background:

• Objective measurement tools for physical function exist but lack widespread clinical adoption.
• Aortic stenosis treatment involves surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).
• Postoperative recovery and physical function are critical outcomes for patients undergoing aortic valve replacement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe preoperative physical function in patients with aortic stenosis.
• To assess and compare 6-month postoperative changes in physical function after SAVR versus TAVR.
• To evaluate the feasibility of using wearable devices for monitoring physical function in these patients.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational study design.
• Enrollment 1 month pre-SAVR/TAVR, with wearable device (activity tracker) use from baseline to 12 months post-procedure.
• Follow-up assessments at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, including physical function tests, quality of life, and sleep quality assessments.

Main Results:

• Study enrollment is ongoing as of October 2020.
• The ethics committee has approved the study protocol.
• Data collection on physical function, quality of life, and sleep is underway.

Conclusions:

• Wearable devices show potential for real-time monitoring of physical activity in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement.
• This technology may enhance clinical management and improve patient health outcomes.
• Further research is needed to fully establish the role of wearables in postoperative cardiac care.