Background
In addition to age and gender, cardio-respiratory fitness is determined in particular by the level of training and personal cardio performance. A low value represents a high health risk. VO2max is therefore dependent on age and gender, but is also influenced in particular by fitness level.
In rehabilitation, VO2max is normally measured using spiroergometry, the ‘gold standard’ for measuring cardiorespiratory fitness. In this method, a mask is worn over the nose and mouth on the cycle ergometer, which continuously measures oxygen uptake. In order to determine the VO2max, a patient must be able to push the body to the limit of their personal capacity. The test is also very time-consuming. The use of Seismofit, a small device that can determine a patient's VO2max at rest in just 45 seconds, makes it possible to avoid time-consuming testing.
The technology behind Seismofit works in a similar way to how scientists use a seismograph to measure earthquakes. A seismocardiogram records the cardiac micro-vibrations in the low-frequency range, which are triggered by heartbeats and transmitted via the sternum. The recorded microvibrations provide important information about the strength of contractions, the cardiac timing and the rhythm of the heart. These cardiac performance values can now be used to assess the mechanical function of the heart and a person's cardiovascular fitness level.
Product and partner
Seismofit is a small device that is placed on the patient's chest (supine/resting position) using an adhesive patch. The device is activated via the VentiJect app and then records the patient's seismocardiography (SCG) signal for 40 seconds. The recording is then transmitted to a cloud solution, using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and an advanced algorithm to determine the patient's VO2max and transmit it back to the app.
Objetives and target group
The objective of the project is to compare the results of normal and time-intensive spiroergometry with those of Seismofit in order to evaluate the extent to which the test values correlate.
The advantage of using the device is that patients who are unable to complete a maximal exercise test can obtain a VO2max estimate with Seismofit. The application also saves a great deal of time compared to conventional spiroergometry.
Innovation aspect
The use of devices that estimate VO2max and are based on seismocardiography technology brings an innovative approach to rehabilitation. By accurately estimating the maximum oxygen consumption, therapists and doctors can better monitor the physical performance of their patients and create personalised training plans. In addition, for the first time, VO2max can be measured in patients who would not normally be able to perform an exercise programme.
Pilot testing and implementation
The first part of the project ran from October 2023 to April 2024. After presenting and discussing the measured values in the Medical Board Cardiology and with the company Ventrijet, a second project phase will start in 2024, which will include a study with cardiac patients.