Relationship between functional capacity and diastolic function in early myocardial infarction

Abstract

The myocardial infarction (MI) alters left ventricle diastolic function (LVDF) in different grades, which may reflect on functional capacity (FC). This study aimed to assess, in patients with recent MI, the relation between LVDF and FC evaluated by the distance covered during the six minute walking test (6MWT). Fifty-six uncomplicated MI inpatients were selected after discharge from the coronary care unit and submitted to tests. Statistic analyses were carried out considering all patients for correlations and groups according to the classification of LVDF to comparison. It was found correlation between lateral wave a' (later diastole) and 6MWD (r=-0.320; p=0.023) and no difference between FC and LVDF between groups. Blood pressure and heart rate had physiologic responses. The correlation indicates that the impairment of early diastole expands the role of atrial contraction in CF, reinforcing the need for evaluation of these patients still in the hospital. The physiological responses related to the six minute walking test reinforce the feasibility of its use after recent MI.