Influencing Cardiovascular Outcomes through Heart Rate Variability Modulation: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Psychophysiology
• Behavioral Medicine

Background:

• Psychological stress is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD).
• Heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback shows potential for stress reduction and improving autonomic function.
• HRV biofeedback may positively impact cardiovascular endpoints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the impact of HRV biofeedback on clinical outcomes in patients with CVD.
• To investigate HRV modulation's effects on cardiovascular health.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, and Cochrane databases up to October 1, 2021.
• Analysis of clinical outcomes in patients undergoing HRV biofeedback interventions.

Main Results:

• HRV biofeedback significantly lowered all-cause readmission rates compared to psychological education.
• Reduced stress and depression were associated with improved heart failure outcomes.
• Patients with LVEF ≥ 31% showed improved 6-minute walk test results.
• Pre-hypertensive patients experienced reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Conclusions:

• HRV biofeedback demonstrates beneficial effects across various cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension, heart failure, and coronary artery disease.
• Standardized breathing protocols are recommended for future research to ensure result comparability.
• Further research is needed on HRV biofeedback's impact on mortality in coronary artery disease patients.