Background
Recommendations for using exercise training protocols in cardiac rehabilitation are based on the potential benefits they provide, minimizing morbidity and mortality risks in coronary patients. This review aimed to investigate the benefits offered by different physical exercise programs after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
Methods
We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled clinical trials found in PubMed and Physiotherapy Evidence (PEDro) databases.
Results
We found 7 randomized controlled trials (463 participants) with physical exercise programs comprising aerobic training, inspiratory muscle training, strength training and combined training. The programs surveyed consisted of: aerobic training (duration of protocols between 4 weeks and 6 months; duration of session, 20–80 min; frequency, 3–5 times a week; intensity, 60–90% of heart rate reserve), combined training and combined training + inspiratory muscle training (12-week duration in 60 min twice weekly sessions; aerobic intensity of 55–65% of the heart rate reserve) and resistance training (duration of 8 weeks, in 20–45 min sessions distributed 2–3 times a week, using 3 sets of 10–40 repetitions, with an intensity of 20–30% of peak torque).
Conclusion
The practice of physical exercises (with duration, frequency and intensity established) in cardiac rehabilitation programs proposed were beneficial for patients who had undergone coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the benefits mentioned.