Comprehensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Following Acute Myocardial Infarction Improves Clinical Outcomes Regardless of Exercise Capacity
Takashi Hiruma, Atsuko Nakayama, Junko Sakamoto, Kentaro Hori, Mamoru Nanasato, Toru Hosoda, Mitsuaki Isobe
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Reduced exercise capacity is a prognostic indicator of adverse outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in this population. This study aimed to clarify the efficacy of comprehensive CR in patients with AMI and reduced exercise capacity. METHODS AND RESULTS: <80%; n=241) and preserved exercise capacity (≥80%; n=147), based on the initial cardiopulmonary exercise test. Despite distinct exercise capacities, the incidence of MACE was comparable and physical parameters improved similarly after comprehensive CR in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Comprehensive CR in patients with AMI effectively reduced the incidence of MACE regardless of initial exercise capacity. Cardiologists should actively encourage patients with low exercise capacity to participate in comprehensive CR.