Exercise regimens after myocardial revascularization surgery: rationale and results.

Although the exercise prescription for the patient after myocardial revascularization surgery has unique differences from the regimen for the patient after infarction, there are many similarities. Most differences between the two patient groups apply during the initial weeks of rehabilitation (approximately 6 to 8 weeks). In the inpatient program the patient after CABG surgery usually begins ROM exercise and ambulation earlier. Upper extremity ROM exercises are emphasized more with the surgery patient, and the rate of progression of the intensity and duration of training is faster. Most data concerning morbidity, mortality, physiologic and psychologic factors, and return to work show similar results for patients after coronary bypass surgery and after MI.