Comparison on measurement method of maximal oxygen uptake during cardiac stress test

Abstract

Cardiac stress test is a method to overview an individual's heart functional capacity by exerting stress on the heart with physical activities such as walking, running, cycling and many more. The result is measured in term of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2MAX) with several options of measurement method. The options include direct testing, indirect testing (Bruce protocol, Modified Bruce protocol and Naughton protocol) and self-testing method (The Rockport Fitness Walking Test, Cooper Test and Heart Rate Ratio Method). This paper compares the available methods based on the equipment used, procedure, cost, and the suitability of each method based on the patient's condition. The result of direct testing precisely describes the heart condition meanwhile the indirect testing and self-testing method is interpreted in term of metabolic equivalents (METS). Finally, it can be deduced that direct testing can be used for a severe heart problem's patient and indirect testing and self-testing is more suitable for early and mid-detection of heart problem. The stress test is important for early detection, enables the doctor to evaluate and prognosis the patient's heart and suggests the best medication and alternative method to cure the patients.