Objective: To systematically review and critically
appraise the literature on measurement properties
of cardiopulmonary exercise test protocols for
measuring aerobic capacity, VO2max, in persons after
stroke.
Data sources: PubMed, Embase and Cinahl were
searched from inception up to 15 June 2016. A total
of 9 studies were identified reporting on 9 different
cardiopulmonary exercise test protocols.
Study selection: VO2max measured with cardiopulmonary
exercise test and open spirometry was the construct
of interest. The target population was adult
persons after stroke. We included all studies that
evaluated reliability, measurement error, criterion
validity, content validity, hypothesis testing and/
or responsiveness of cardiopulmonary exercise test
protocols.
Data extraction: Two researchers independently
screened the literature, assessed methodological
quality using the COnsensus-based Standards for
the selection of health Measurement INstruments
checklist and extracted data on measurement properties
of cardiopulmonary exercise test protocols.
Data synthesis: Most studies reported on only one
measurement property. Best-evidence synthesis
was derived taking into account the methodological
quality of the studies, the results and the consistency
of the results.
Conclusion: No judgement could be made on which
protocol is “best” for measuring VO2max in persons
after stroke due to lack of high-quality studies on
the measurement properties of the cardiopulmonary
exercise test.
