Clinical Risk Factors and Prognostic Impact of Osteoporosis in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure.

Background: The clinical significance of osteoporosis in chronic heart failure (CHF) remains unclear.

Methods and results: A total of 303 CHF patients (75 years, [interquartile range (IQR) 66-82 years]; 41% female) were retrospectively examined. Bone mineral densities (BMDs) at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total femur were measured by using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), and osteoporosis was diagnosed when the BMD at any of the 3 sites was <70% of the Young Adult Mean percentage (%YAM).

Progressive Mobilization Program for Patients With Acute Heart Failure Reduces Hospital Stay and Improves Clinical Outcome.

Early ambulation has been shown to be associated with shorter hospital stay and better clinical outcomes in patients with acute heart failure (HF). Early mobilization program in combination with structured exercise training is recommended, but has yet to be developed and implemented in HF. We developed a progressive mobilization program for HF patients that classifies the mobilization process into 7 stages based on disease condition and physical function.