Charting New Territories in Cardiac Care Intensive Care Rehabilitation and the Enduring Impact on Post-Acute Cardiac Event Outcomes

Cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) survivors face significant morbidity and mortality after hospital discharge. Many develop new or worsening physical, cognitive, or psychological impairments consistent with post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). Our current knowledge regarding the epidemiology of and risk factors for PICS is largely derived from general intensive care unit (ICU) cohorts. CICU care includes distinct exposures and pathophysiologic characteristics, including cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest, temporary mechanical circulatory support, and complex cardiovascular interventions that may alter the frequency of PICS, response to interventions, and result in unique need profiles. This review summarizes existing evidence describing CICU survivors post-discharge, including PICS. It highlights cardiac-specific vulnerabilities and outlines assessment strategies that may be adapted for post-CICU follow-up. Finally, we examine emerging clinic models and key outcome measures relevant to CICU survivors, including patient-centered, caregiver-centered, and cardiac-specific endpoints. Optimal care for CICU survivors must expand beyond the ICU, with structured recovery pathways, standardized tools, and coordinated research efforts to guide best practices and improve long-term outcomes after cardiac critical illness.