Why Cardiac Rehab is Essential After Angioplasty or Bypass Surgery

After you have undergone Angioplasty or Bypass Surgery and have been discharged, this marks the beginning of your recovery, not the end!

Cardiac Rehabilitation is a structured program supervised by doctors, physiotherapists, dietitians, and psychologists that helps the heart regain its strength after bypass surgery.

What exactly happens during Rehab?

1. Functional capacity is measured using METs and the 6-minute walk test.

2. Blood pressure response during exercise is monitored to see how much BP rises or falls.

3. Heart rate variability (HRV) is assessed to evaluate the heart's stress adaptability.

4. Weight and waist circumference are tracked to monitor fat loss.

5. Mental health status is evaluated for depression and anxiety scores.

6. Exercise protocol follow-up ensures the exercise intensity is appropriate.

7. Lifestyle adherence is checked, including diet, sleep, and smoking cessation.

8. Lipid profile and sugar levels are tracked, including LDL, triglycerides, and HbA1c.

9. Medication adherence is monitored to ensure medicines are taken on time.

10. Readiness to return to work and daily life activities is assessed.

While surgery restores blood flow to the heart, Cardiac Rehab helps the heart beat strongly again.

Whether you have had bypass, angioplasty, or suffer from heart failure, every patient must undergo Cardiac Rehab. It is not optional but essential.

Dr Ravindra L. Kulkarni, MD, DNB, FSCAI (Cardiology) Just For Hearts