Abstract
Three dilative cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients with long term support with left ventricular assist systems (LVAS) received physical rehabilitation following our rehabilitation programs. All patients were male and the average age was 45 year-old. Two patients were supported by Toyobo LVAS (NCVC type) and another were supported by TCI-LVAS (Heart Mate1000IP). The average duration of complete bed-rest before LVAS implantation were 30 days. Rehabilitation program was consisted of 5 stages. It is scheduled to start with physical training on the bed from 3POD, beside the bed from SPOD, using bicycle ergometer from 8POD, and walking assisted by a walker from 10POD after LVAS implantation. Three patients could satisfactorily complete the rehabilitation program until the level of bicycle ergometer, however, the start of walking training was significantly delayedto 17POD due to weakness of the legs resulting from the long duration of bed-rest before LVAS implantation. In conclusion, the rehabilitation program for patients who were supported by LVAS should be planned and individually arrangedregarding the physical ability of each patient.
