Our Summary

This research paper is a review of studies investigating the role of exercise in the recovery of elderly patients who have undergone heart surgery. The researchers looked at studies focusing on patients aged 65 and above who had heart valve surgery or coronary artery bypass grafting, followed by a cardiac rehabilitation exercise program. They were particularly interested in how physical function and cognitive recovery were affected by these exercise programs.

The team found that a higher volume of exercise had a positive impact on functional recovery, as measured by how far patients could walk in six minutes. However, they didn’t find any significant improvements in peak oxygen consumption, maximum power output, or quality of life when additional exercise was compared to standard care. They also noted that no studies looked at how exercise might affect cognitive recovery.

In simple terms, exercise seems to help older heart surgery patients recover physically, but the researchers are still not sure which specific types of exercise and what amount are best for improving mental recovery.

FAQs

  1. What age group did the researchers focus on in their review of exercise in heart surgery recovery?
  2. What impact did a higher volume of exercise have on the physical recovery of elderly heart surgery patients?
  3. Did the studies find any significant improvements in peak oxygen consumption, maximum power output, or quality of life with additional exercise compared to standard care?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about sternotomy is to follow their post-operative exercise program carefully. This may include walking, stretching, and light strength training to help improve physical function and overall recovery. It’s important to listen to your healthcare team and gradually increase your activity level as directed to avoid any complications or setbacks in your healing process.

Suitable For

Patients who have undergone heart valve surgery or coronary artery bypass grafting are typically recommended sternotomy. These patients are often older adults, aged 65 and above, who may have reduced physical function and cognitive abilities due to their heart condition. Sternotomy is a surgical procedure in which the sternum (breastbone) is cut open to provide access to the heart for surgery. This procedure is commonly performed in patients with heart valve disease or coronary artery disease to repair or replace damaged heart valves or bypass blocked coronary arteries.

After undergoing sternotomy, patients are usually advised to participate in a cardiac rehabilitation exercise program to help improve their physical function and overall recovery. Exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on functional recovery in elderly patients who have undergone heart surgery, as it can improve muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness, and mobility.

Overall, sternotomy is recommended for patients who have significant heart disease that requires surgical intervention, and engaging in a cardiac rehabilitation exercise program can help improve their physical function and recovery following surgery.

Timeline

Before sternotomy:

  • Patient is diagnosed with a heart condition that requires surgery
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation
  • Patient is admitted to the hospital for the surgery
  • Patient undergoes sternotomy, which is the surgical incision of the sternum to access the heart
  • Patient is monitored closely in the intensive care unit post-surgery

After sternotomy:

  • Patient begins physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises to help with recovery
  • Patient experiences pain and discomfort in the chest and around the incision site
  • Patient gradually increases physical activity and mobility
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor progress
  • Patient may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms as they continue to recover
  • Patient gradually returns to their normal activities and daily routine

Overall, the timeline of recovery after sternotomy can vary for each patient, but typically involves a combination of physical therapy, medication management, and close monitoring by healthcare providers.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How soon after sternotomy surgery can I begin cardiac rehabilitation exercise?
  2. What types of exercises are safe for me to do after sternotomy surgery?
  3. How often should I be exercising for optimal recovery?
  4. Are there any specific exercises I should avoid after sternotomy surgery?
  5. How will exercise help with my physical recovery after sternotomy surgery?
  6. Will exercise also help with my cognitive recovery after sternotomy surgery?
  7. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with exercising after sternotomy surgery?
  8. Can you recommend a cardiac rehabilitation program or exercise plan for me to follow?
  9. How will my progress be monitored during my recovery through exercise?
  10. Are there any resources or support groups available for heart surgery patients who are incorporating exercise into their recovery process?

Reference

Authors: Pengelly J, Pengelly M, Lin KY, Royse C, Karri R, Royse A, Bryant A, Williams G, El-Ansary D. Journal: Heart Lung Circ. 2019 Oct;28(10):1560-1570. doi: 10.1016/j.hlc.2019.05.098. Epub 2019 May 25. PMID: 31176628