Effects of Interval Physical Training on Expiratory Flow Limitation in Recent Myocardial Infarction

Introduction: Expiratory flow limitation (EFL) and ventilatory inefficiency during dynamic exercise have been identified in patients with recent myocardial infarction (RMI) with preserved ventricular and pulmonary function. However, it is not known what is the prevalence of EFL in this population and what are the effects of physical and respiratory training on this limitation. Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of EFL and ventilatory inefficiency during dynamic exercise in individuals with uncomplicated RMI, and to evaluate the effects of interval physical training (IT) in addition to inspiratory muscle training (IMT), exclusive IT and absence of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation (CR) on EFL and ventilatory efficiency. Methods: 54 patients will be included, divided into three groups with 18 participants each. All will be submitted to evaluations of heart rate variability, hematological and biochemical profile, erythrocytes membrane deformability and stability, inflammatory markers, respiratory pressures, plethysmography, spirometry, carbon monoxide diffusion capacity, ankle brachial index, electrical bioimpedance, echocardiogram, quality of life questionnaires, cardiopulmonary exercise testing and constant load tests. Then, groups 1 (IT) and group 2 (IT + IMT) will participate in a physical training program for 12 weeks and will be re-evaluated after this period. In addition, they will be monitored for a 6 month period after discharge, with returns every two months to measure the energy expenditure through an accelerometer, and at the end of this period they will repeat all the tests again. Group 3 (absence of CR), will consist of patients who do not live in the city or those who can not participate in the CR program for any other reason, and will only participate in the evaluations.