Helsefonden funds project to empower elderly health after heart surgery

Senior Consultant Cardiac Surgeon and Associate Professor Ivy Susanne Modrau, MD dr.med. (German) receives funding from Helsefonden to investigate the potential of early mobile health intervention following heart surgery.

A growing number of elderly with multiple chronic conditions suffer poor health after seemingly successful surgery despite readily available cardiac rehabilitation offerings. To address this challenge, collaborative research efforts between surgeons and physiotherapists at Aarhus University Hospital and Aalborg University Hospital are underway.

"We aim to explore the potential of early mobile health intervention following heart surgery to enhance physical capacity, boost overall well-being, and counteract the loss of muscle mass.

In a randomized controlled trial, we will compare outcomes between elderly patients who receive personalized rehabilitation via a mobile application immediately upon discharge, alongside standard center-based rehabilitation, with those receiving standard care alone.

We are excited to harness the potential of modern digital technology to enhance recovery of future senior patients."

The realization of this study has been made possible through the generous grant of 400,000 DKK from Helsefonden, which complements the ongoing support from the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Contact

Ivy Susanne Modrau, MD
Clinical Associate Professor, Senior Consultant

Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery
Aarhus University Hospital
Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 69
8200 Aarhus N

Email: ivymod@clin.au.dk