Gamified Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation in a Child Undergoing LVAD Bridging Therapy to Heart Transplantation: A Case Report.
Xiaomin Shan, Jiajia Zhu, Jiajia Li et al.
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Case in brief
A 6-year-old girl undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy for heart transplantation received a comprehensive, gamified cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program. This multidisciplinary approach included early mobilization, play-based respiratory training, and a progressive exercise regimen. The patient showed significant improvements in cardiopulmonary function and muscle strength, achieving a left ventricular ejection fraction of 69% and a 6-minute walk distance of 260 m by discharge on postoperative Day 44.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
This case highlights the importance of individualized, phase-adapted rehabilitation strategies in pediatric patients transitioning from LVAD support to heart transplantation.
Why it matters
The structured, gamified approach to rehabilitation may enhance patient engagement and outcomes, providing a valuable framework for clinicians working with similar high-risk pediatric populations.