Mixed
Combining neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) with high protein supplementation (HPRO) and physical therapy (PT) mitigates lower extremity muscle loss and restores positive nitrogen balance in critically ill, mechanically ventilated patients compared to standard care.
For critically ill patients who cannot actively exercise, combining high protein intake (approx 1.3g/kg/day) with twice-daily neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on the legs and physical therapy significantly reduces muscle loss compared to standard care. This multimodal approach helps maintain muscle mass and improves nitrogen balance, which is crucial for recovery in the ICU.
The combination of NMES, HPRO and PT resulted in mitigation of lower extremity muscle loss and amelioration of clinical status of patients admitted to the ICU.
Why this rating
It is a randomized pilot trial with a small sample size (n=39) and high dropout rates, limiting statistical power for secondary outcomes.
Source
Combining Exercise, Protein Supplementation and Electric Stimulation to Mitigate Muscle Wasting and Improve Outcomes for Survivors of Critical Illness - the ExPrES Study
Avelino C. Verceles et al. · Research Square · 2021
DOI 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1170718/v1
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