DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjm.2024.v10i10.033

Pages: 1148-1153

Background: Early rehabilitation is crucial for enhancing recovery in patients with left ventricular dysfunction following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study aimed to compare the outcomes of early versus delayed rehabilitation on cardiopulmonary health, quality of life, and overall recovery. Methods: A total of 60 patients were randomized into two groups: early rehabilitation (within 5 days post-PCI) and delayed rehabilitation (after 3 weeks). Key outcomes measured included VO2 max, 6-minute walk distance, respiratory function, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), quality of life (SF-36), and life satisfaction scores, assessed at a 6-month follow-up. Results: The mean age in the early rehabilitation group was 57.4 ± 10.2 years, while in the delayed rehabilitation group it was 61.3 ± 9.7 years. Patients in the early rehabilitation group exhibited significantly higher VO2 max (26.5 ± 4.2 ml/kg/min vs. 23.1 ± 3.9 ml/kg/min, p = 0.005) and 6-minute walk distance (445.3 ± 50.6 m vs. 395.1 ± 48.7 m, p = 0.002). Additionally, improvements in respiratory function (FEV1) and LVEF were noted (p < 0.01). Quality of life scores were also significantly higher in the early group (SF-36 Physical: 72.3 ± 7.6 vs. 64.8 ± 8.3, p = 0.001; Mental: 74.1 ± 8.1 vs. 68.5 ± 7.7, p = 0.004). Conclusion: Early rehabilitation significantly enhances cardiopulmonary outcomes and quality of life compared to delayed rehabilitation in patients with left ventricular dysfunction post-PCI. These findings underscore the importance of implementing early rehabilitation protocols in clinical practice.