Does CABG with Saphenous Vein Grafting and Standard Cardiac Rehabilitation Affect Lower Limb Function? A Clinical Study

Background: The aim of the study was to assess lower limb function in response to two cardiac rehabilitation (CR) protocols after coronary artery bypass surgery with saphenous vein grafting. Methods: Clinically-stable male patients aged 50–70 years were recruited 4 weeks post-surgery in which to group. Group I (n = 47) receive standard CR in a hospital setting for 3 weeks and Group II (n = 14) receive CR with a resistance training component in an outpatient setting for 8 weeks. Measures included body mass and composition, lower limb temperature distribution, lower limb hemodynamics, and dorsal and plantar flexor muscle strength. Results: Average temperature of the operated limb decreased only in Group II after cardiac rehabilitation. Venous blood flow improved in both groups as evidenced by increased blood refilling time. Isokinetic strength was greater in Group I. Conclusions: The results suggest a 3-week intensive CR protocol to be most effective in restoring lower limb function in CABG patients after saphenectomy.