Abstract Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a major global health concern, contributing to significant morbidity and mortality. Early cardiac rehabilitation (ECR) plays a crucial role in enhancing functional recovery, reducing complications, and improving the quality of life for postoperative cardiovascular patients. This study critically evaluates the effectiveness of ECR and its impact on recovery outcomes, readmission rates, and long-term prognosis. Methods: An extensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, focusing on peer-reviewed articles, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and systematic reviews. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed for study selection, and data extraction was carried out to analyze key parameters such as functional outcomes, hospital readmission rates, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and quality of life (QoL). Results: A total of 22 studies were analyzed, covering diverse geographical regions. The findings demonstrate that ECR significantly enhances functional capacity, reduces 30-day hospital readmission rates, improves LVEF, and contributes to better long-term survival outcomes. Psychological benefits, including reduced anxiety and depression, were also observed. Additionally, structured rehabilitation programs were linked to shorter hospital stays and increased patient adherence to long-term lifestyle modifications. Conclusion: Early cardiac rehabilitation is a vital intervention for postoperative cardiovascular patients, providing substantial benefits in terms of functional recovery, mortality reduction, and quality of life improvement. The findings underscore the necessity for healthcare systems to integrate structured ECR programs to optimize patient outcomes.
Nada et al. (Sat,) studied this question.