Efficacy of modified cardiac rehabilitation programs on myocardial infarction or cardiac surgery patients: A systematic review

2 Abstract Background there is a lack of consensus regarding the optimal approach to cardiac rehabilitation, particularly in terms of how different interventions impact the cardiac, respiratory and psychological characteristics of patients who have experienced myocardial infarction or have undergone heart surgery. Objectives evaluate the effects of modified cardiac rehabilitation programs on myocardial infarction or cardiac surgery patients. Methods Pubmed, Web of Science, PEDro, Dialnet, Scopus, ProQuest, Medline, and Cochrane were last searched in February 2023. The study selection: guided by specific criteria related to the impact of modified cardiac rehabilitation programs on the health of cardiac adult patients. The eligible studies had to be randomized or uncontrolled clinical trials and human studies published within the past 5 years. A total of 23 articles were reviewed, comprising 21 randomized clinical trials and 2 non-randomized clinical studies, involving a total of 1113 participants who met the inclusion criteria. Study design, age, sex, number of participants, intervention treatment, control group procedure, most important measures and their final outcomes were synthesised in a word sheet. Results interventions involving aerobic, resistance, and ventilatory muscle training, as well as high-intensity interval training, were effective in improving health outcomes. Home-based and water-based training programs were as effective as centre-based and gym-based programs. Yoga and tai chi interventions showed significant improvements in outcomes related to mental health. The articles showed a high level of methodological quality in PEDro scale and low/moderate quality in IVS. Limitations differences in the intensity of interventions, irregular participation and variable methodological scores. Conclusion incorporating aerobic, resistance, and ventilatory muscle training in conjunction with high-intensity interval training shows promising results and should be taken into consideration for effective cardiac rehabilitation. However, further research is required to fully understand the role of tai chi and yoga in the program.