Implementation and Importance of Cardiac Rehabilitation for Cardiac Patients in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) has progressed over the years from a basic monitoring procedure for a safe return to physical activity to a multidisciplinary strategy that emphasizes patient education, specifically for designed exercise training, risk factor management, and the general health of cardiac patients. Methods: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting was used for this systematic review. The studies included were retrieved via an electronic search of Google Scholar and PubMed using the following terms: cardiac rehabilitation (CR), cardiac diseases, coronary artery bypass graft, heart failure, cardiac rehabilitation guidelines, rehabilitation, recovery of function, cardiac rehabilitation importance, cardiac rehabilitation outcomes, physical therapy modalities, secondary prevention, physical medicine, and cardiac rehabilitation phases. Results: Publications (n=24) that included worldwide standards demonstrating the implementation of CR programs in a variety of scenarios were reviewed. These publications are based on well-defined guidelines that represent best practices from several cardiology societies, which use varying valid programs by comparing those guidelines with CR/secondary prevention programs. Conclusion: Several indications have been used in the development of the CR program, with the goal of regaining autonomy and increasing physical, psychological, and social activities. With the Saudi Vision 2030 initiatives for health national transformation programs, there are targets set to ensure the reduction and prevention of noncommunicable diseases and to reduce cardiovascular disease risks by initiating an accredited CR program and guidelines for Saudi Arabia.