Neuromuscular electrical stimulation in mechanically ventilated patients: a randomized, sham-controlled pilot trial with blinded outcome assessment.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to compare neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) vs sham on leg strength at hospital discharge in mechanically ventilated patients.

Materials and methods

We conducted a randomized pilot study of NMES vs sham applied to 3 bilateral lower extremity muscle groups for 60 minutes daily in the intensive care unit (ICU). Between June 2008 and March 2013, we enrolled adults who were receiving mechanical ventilation within the first week of ICU stay and who could transfer independently from bed to chair before hospital admission. The primary outcome was lower extremity muscle strength at hospital discharge using Medical Research Council score (maximum, 30). Secondary outcomes at hospital discharge included walking distance and change in lower

SUBMITTER: Kho ME 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4268169 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature