Antwerp Activity Index: Advancing Cardiac Rehabilitation Monitoring

The Antwerp Activity Index, a new tool designed for monitoring physical activity during the maintenance phase of cardiac rehabilitation, has been announced as part of an upcoming clinical trial. This initiative, led by the University Hospital Antwerp in collaboration with Universiteit Antwerpen and Jessa Hospital, aims to improve the long-term outcomes of cardiac rehabilitation patients. Although not yet recruiting, this study promises actionable insights for clinical teams and medical device developers.

In this article:

Why this matters for cardiac rehabilitation

Cardiovascular disease continues to be one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Cardiac rehabilitation programs play a critical role in managing patient outcomes and preventing disease progression. The maintenance phase, however, remains a challenging period where sustained physical activity often declines. The Antwerp Activity Index seeks to address these challenges by offering a systematic approach to monitoring activity levels, ensuring long-term adherence to recommended therapy plans.

How the study is structured

The clinical trial, slated to begin recruitment in the near future, is backed by a consortium of Belgian healthcare institutions, including the University Hospital Antwerp, Universiteit Antwerpen, and Jessa Hospital. Focused on patients in the post-acute phase of cardiac rehabilitation, the study aims to validate the use of an activity score device. This device will be evaluated for its ability to accurately measure physical activity and provide meaningful guidance for healthcare providers.

Components of the proposed activity score device

The activity score device being investigated is designed to deliver quantitative data that reflect patient activity levels. While technical specifics are not yet detailed in the announcement, the device is expected to integrate seamlessly into standard cardiac rehabilitation protocols. Such innovations could bridge the gap between acute-phase care and sustainable maintenance strategies. Device performance and safety evaluations will adhere to stringent regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the goal of the Antwerp Activity Index?
    It aims to monitor and guide physical activity during the post-acute maintenance phase of cardiac rehabilitation.
  2. Who is conducting this clinical trial?
    The study is sponsored by University Hospital Antwerp, Universiteit Antwerpen, and Jessa Hospital.
  3. When will patient recruitment start?
    The trial is noted as “not yet recruiting.” Future updates will clarify recruitment timelines.
  4. What population is targeted?
    The trial addresses individuals who have completed the acute phase of cardiac rehabilitation but require ongoing support during the maintenance phase.
  5. Where can I find more information?
    Follow the link at the end of this article.

Key takeaways

This initiative underscores the importance of continuous monitoring in cardiac rehabilitation programs, particularly during the maintenance phase. It introduces the Antwerp Activity Index as a promising tool to improve adherence to physical activity guidelines. Healthcare teams and medical device developers should monitor the outcomes of this trial as they could inform future therapeutic strategies.

Disclaimer for professionals

The information presented is for educational purposes and does not substitute for professional legal or regulatory advice. Always consult regulatory guidelines and clinical evidence directly.

Link to full announcement

For full information about the announcement, see the link below.

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07211282?term=medical+device