Efficiency and safety of physical training after myocardial infarction in elderly patients aged 70 to 85 years

The objective of the study was to determine the efficiency and safety of cardiac rehabilitation by exercise training in elderly patients with coronary artery disease, and investigate whether the results are similar to those of younger patients. The study included 57 patients; 82% males and 18% females. 23% had undergone percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), 42% had had coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and 35% had had neither of these procedures. Physical training was performed for 6 months. The mean age was 76 years, ranging from 70 to 85 years (8 patients were 80 years or older). No statistically significant improvement due to the exercise program was seen in the ejection fraction and resting blood pressure, in peak oxygen consumption, in total cholesterol or in LDL cholesterol level. There was a significant reduction in the resting heart rate (8%), double product at the same work load (13%), an increase of 17% in the work time and a 15% increase in HDL fraction. No severe cardiac events or complications were observed during the entire training period. In an elderly population, improving work capacity by 17% and thus the ability to perform daily activities, is far more relevant than reducing risk factors and lengthening prognosis. We conclude that an EP plan after acute myocardial infarction and after coronary interventions in elderly patients aged 70 to 85 is safe and efficient, although its efficacy is not the same as in a younger population.