A Comprehensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Program in Post-CABG Patients: A Rationale and Critical Pathway

Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death and disability in our Society. Coronary artery bypass graft surgery can be associated with remarkable relief of symptoms secondary to myocardial ischemia, and in selected cohorts, with prolonged survival. However, many patients have recurrent disease and symptoms. This vicious cycle continues to deplete medical resources and to keep the morbidity associated with CAD at unacceptable levels. Secondary prevention strategies are essential in the battle against heart disease. We have outlined a comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation protocol designed for the post-CABG patient. It incorporates not only exercise, traditionally an essential part of rehabilitation, but also risk factor modification, psychosocial readjustment, weight management, and inpatient rehabilitation. With the standardized and consistent application of such protocols a significant decrease in the morbidity and even the mortality associated with coronary heart disease can be anticipated.^{7,16,27,47-51}.