Exercise Testing in ICU Survivors to Evaluate ICU-acquired Weakness

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how sepsis and critical illness can affect the heart and small blood vessels in patients who have been in the intensive care unit (ICU). This study focuses on understanding how these effects may lead to long-lasting muscle weakness and difficulty exercising, a condition known as ICU-Acquired Weakness (ICU-AW). The research aims to clarify the role of microvascular dysfunction in limiting exercise ability in ICU survivors. The study follows ICU survivors who required mechanical ventilation for at least seven days and have been discharged from the hospital. Participants will undergo assessments at two follow-up points: 6 months and 12 months after ICU discharge. These assessments include cardiopulmonary exercise tests to measure peak oxygen uptake and oxygen kinetics, along with high-resolution near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to evaluate skeletal muscle microvascular function during exercise. During the study, participants will have tests to measure oxygen use and delivery in muscles, cardiovascular blood flow, and physical abilities. Questionnaires and clinical scores will also be used to assess independence, frailty, and muscle strength. Data collection will continue throughout the 12 months, monitoring recruitment and retention. The study aims to gather detailed information on how the cardiovascular system and microcirculation recover or remain impaired after critical illness.

ICU Combined Assessment of Cardio-Respiratory Exercise