On October 5, 2025, a noteworthy clinical trial studying the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on mechanically ventilated intensive care unit (ICU) patients was announced. Sponsored by Hospital Moinhos de Vento and the Federal University of Health Science of Porto Alegre, the MOVCARE trial aims to investigate whether NMES can address muscle weakness and improve patient outcomes.
What is the purpose of this trial?
The MOVCARE clinical trial focuses on addressing muscle weakness in critically ill patients undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation. ICU patients often experience severe muscle atrophy due to prolonged immobilization and sedation. This condition, known as ICU-acquired weakness, can extend recovery periods, lower quality of life post-discharge, and increase healthcare costs.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) delivers electrical currents to induce muscle contractions, potentially counteracting atrophy without necessitating physical effort from the patient. Researchers aim to evaluate whether NMES improves muscle mass and function compared to traditional physical therapy.
What interventions are being studied?
The trial compares two intervention approaches:
- Conventional Physical Therapy: This group receives standard physical rehabilitation prescribed by ICU guidelines.
- Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES): This group undergoes NMES treatment using an electrical device to stimulate targeted muscles.
Safety, efficacy, and performance data for both interventions will be analyzed to determine which approach best supports patient recovery.
Who is eligible to participate?
The trial is currently recruiting adults hospitalized in ICUs who require mechanical ventilation and display signs of muscle weakness. Participants will be carefully monitored to ensure adherence to safety protocols.
This trial may attract attention from medical device professionals, clinical teams, and regulatory staff due to its implications for NMES technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is sponsoring the trial?
The trial is sponsored by Hospital Moinhos de Vento and the Federal University of Health Science of Porto Alegre. - How does NMES work?
NMES involves electrical currents that stimulate muscle contractions via electrodes placed on the skin. - When does recruitment end?
Specific recruitment timelines are not disclosed but interested parties should act promptly as the trial is actively recruiting.
Key takeaways
The MOVCARE trial has the potential to redefine rehabilitation practices for critically ill patients. If NMES proves effective, it could pave the way for broader implementation within ICU protocols and inspire innovations in medical device engineering.
Stakeholders in clinical care and medical device development should monitor this trial’s outcomes to understand its impact on patient care strategies.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, regulatory, or legal advice.
Announcement and full information
For full information about the announcement, see the link below.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07188350?term=medical+device