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Published on: February 1, 2018
Supervised exercise training in patients with lower extremity peripheral artery disease.
Stefano Lanzi1, Jill Belch2, Marianne Brodmann3
1Division of Angiology, Heart and Vessel Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland.
Supervised exercise therapy (SET) is crucial for peripheral artery disease (PAD) but is underused in Europe. A survey revealed significant variability in SET availability, reimbursement, and program structure across European countries.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Supervised exercise therapy (SET) is a recommended first-line treatment for symptomatic chronic lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD).
- SET improves walking performance, functional capacity, and quality of life in PAD patients.
- Despite evidence and guidelines, SET remains underutilized in PAD management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the perception, accessibility, and structure of SET programs for PAD patients across Europe.
- To identify barriers to the widespread implementation of SET in PAD care.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous web-based survey was conducted with 131 respondents from 17 European countries.
- The survey comprised 21 questions developed by specialists in angiology and vascular rehabilitation.
- Data collected focused on the existence, reimbursement, dedication, patient eligibility, and program characteristics of SET.
Main Results:
- SET programs for PAD exist in only 59% of European countries, with reimbursement available in 41%.
- Significant heterogeneity was observed in program structure, patient eligibility (34% PAD-dedicated, 23% cardiac rehab), and enrollment criteria (17% unsure).
- Variations in duration, frequency, and modality of SET were reported across countries.
Conclusions:
- There is substantial variability in the availability and characteristics of SET programs for PAD across Europe.
- The underutilization of SET highlights a need for standardized guidance and improved accessibility.
- Further efforts are required to ensure optimal exercise therapeutic care for PAD patients throughout Europe.
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