Functional and Clinical Improvement after Cardiac Rehabilitation Following PCI: A Case Report

Abstract

ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) may result in left ventricular systolic dysfunction and reduced functional capacity despite successful coronary revascularization. Phase II cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an important component of secondary prevention following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). To describe the clinical course, structured CR program, and functional and clinical outcomes following PCI in a patient with LV dysfunction. This case report used clinical data obtained from the patient’s medical history, physical examination, cardiovascular evaluation, exercise testing, and echocardiography. A 57-year-old man with anterior STEMI underwent successful PCI of the left anterior descending artery. He completed three CR sessions before discontinuing the program for non-medical reasons. One year later, he returned to resume Phase II CR and completed 12 supervised sessions twice a week. Each session included a warm-up, aerobic exercise using a treadmill and ergometer, and resistance training. Exercise intensity and progression were individually prescribed according to the FITT principle (frequency, intensity, time, and type), taking into account the patient’s functional capacity, cardiovascular response, and perceived exertion. Clinical and functional outcomes were assessed by comparing baseline and post-intervention findings from the 6-minute walk test, ergometer stress test, and echocardiography. These assessments were used to evaluate changes in exercise tolerance, hemodynamic response, and left ventricular systolic function. The 6-minute walk test distance increased from 360 to 500 m, exercise capacity from 2.9 to 4.3 METs, and heart-rate recovery from 7 to 16 beats/min. LVEF increased from 31% to 45%, with improvement in regional wall motion. No exercise-related adverse symptoms were reported. Structured and supervised CR was associated with improved functional capacity and cardiac function in this post-PCI patient.