Cardiac rehabilitation programmes (CRP) have proven beneficial in coronary heart disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of our CRP on two coronary heart disease populations: after acute myocardial infarction (AMI-CRP) and after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG-CRP). Results were compared to control groups (AMI-C and CABG-C).
Population: Group AMI-CRP: n = 43 patients, mean age = 48.7 +/- 9.8 years; Group AMI-C: n = 20 patients, mean age = 59.2 +/- 11.5 years; Group CABG-CRP: n = 54 patients, mean age = 54.9 +/- 9.7 years; Group CABG-C: n = 20 patients, mean age = 56.5 +/- 9.9 years. All patients are male and there were no significant differences in ventricular function and coronary disease severity. Parameters were evaluated in the AMI groups at discharge, 3 and 12 months after acute episode; in the CABG groups 3 and 12 months after surgery.
Results: Both CRP groups improved their exercise capacity (significantly improved the peak values of METs and double product). A favorable lipid profile change (total cholesterol and HDL) was induced in the CABG-CRP group and more significant in the AMI-CRP group. No significant differences were observed in obesity indexes (body weight and BMI > or = 27.8 Kg/m2). A increase in nonsmokers was important in all groups. Professional reintegration was 91.7% in the AMI-CRP group and 84.4% in the CABG-CRP group. The CRP groups showed a better knowledge of the disease, and a beneficial change in relation to themselves and the world that resulted in a decrease in depression and anxiety.
Conclusions: Participation in our cardiac rehabilitation program, either after AMI or after CABG, improves cardio-respiratory fitness, favorably influences blood lipid profiles, and improves self-reliance and quality of life.