Importance of Cardiac Rehabilitation in Post-myocardial Infarction

The benefits of cardiac rehabilitation have been demonstrated for several years by various studies showing a 25-35% reduction in mortality, fewer complications and improved physical capabilities and quality of life. In this article, we describe the beneficial effect of cardiac rehabilitation on post-myocardial infarction patients with coronary artery disease.

Patient aged 60, chronic smoker, diabetic, hypertensive and dyslipidemic. Admitted for management of a post-infarction complicated by 35% left ventricular (LV) dysfunction related to a right coronary occlusion dilated by a stent. The patient was recruited 3 weeks after hospitalization for a cardiac rehabilitation program after an initial clinical and paraclinical evaluation. The final evaluation showed a marked improvement in cardiorespiratory and functional capacity, with improvements in VO2 (Oxygen uptake) peak, the first ventilator threshold VT1, maximum heart beat and VE (minute ventilation)/VCO2 (carbon dioxide output) ratio. We also noted an improvement in cardiovascular risk factors with goal attainment, quality of life based on the HAD (Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale) questionnaire, and adherence to treatment.

Cardiac rehabilitation is aimed at all dilated, operated or medically treated coronary patients. It requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach, and helps to improve exercise performance, quality of life and psychological profile, as well as contributing to better socio-professional reintegration.