Realidade virtual na reabilitação cardiorrespiratória pós mediato a revascularização do miocárdio: estudo de caso

Abstract

Context: Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of global mortality, demanding effective therapeutic approaches, particularly in the postoperative period of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG). In this context, cardiorespiratory rehabilitation is essential for functional recovery, and Virtual Reality (VR) emerges as an innovative resource that complements traditional physiotherapy. Objective: Toidentify how the use of Virtual Reality (VR) influences cardiorespiratory rehabilitation in the immediate postoperative period of coronary artery bypass grafting. Methods: This experimental case study, with both qualitative and quantitative approaches, was conducted with 10 patients admitted to João XXIII Hospital in Campina Grande (PB), divided into conventional physiotherapy and physiotherapy supported by VR, using the game Nature Treks VR. The study population, based on the inclusion criteria,consisted of 10 patients in the immediate postoperative period, right after leaving the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and being transferred to the ward, of both sexes and without complications during the CABG procedure. Exclusion criteria included patients with any contraindication to physiotherapy or to virtual reality. Data collection instruments included: Incentive Spirometer (Respiron®); Pulse Oximeter (Oxywatch®); Aneroid Sphygmomanometer and Stethoscope (G-Tech®); Six-MinuteWalk Test (6MWT); and a5-point Likert Scale. Results: The results indicated clinical benefits in the VR group, such as greater hemodynamic stability, improved ventilatory performance, and increased inspiratory capacity. Patients’ subjective evaluation, based on the Likert Scale, revealed high acceptance of the technology, highlighting increased motivation, comfort, and engagement in treatment. Conclusion: Virtual Reality is a promising strategy for cardiorespiratory rehabilitation in post-CABG patients, promoting physical, emotional, and motivation albenefits. Further studies with larger samples are recommended to statistically confirm the observed effects and support its routine incorporation into hospital rehabilitation protocols.