Telerehabilitation vs. Center-Based Rehab for Psychological Well-being After CABG

Psychological distress, such as anxiety and depression, is common after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and negatively affects recovery and quality of life. While center-based cardiac rehabilitation (CBCR) effectively addresses these issues, participation is often limited by barriers like travel, cost, and scheduling. Home-based telerehabilitation (HBTCR) offers a potential solution. This single-center, prospective, three-arm randomized controlled trial was designed to compare the effectiveness of HBTCR versus CBCR and usual care. A total of 110 clinically stable patients, 4-8 weeks post-CABG, were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to an HBTCR group, a CBCR group, or a control group. The intervention period was 12 weeks. The study hypothesized that the HBTCR program, which includes a personalized exercise plan, remote monitoring via a wearable device and mobile app, and weekly psychosocial support from a nurse, would be as effective as the traditional supervised in-person CBCR program in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and improving health-related quality of life.

Inclusion criteria

• Aged 30-75 years.
• 4-8 weeks post-Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG).
• In clinically stable condition.
• Had access to a smartphone and were willing to use it for the program.
• Willing to participate in a 12-week rehabilitation program.
• Provided written informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of severe and unstable comorbidities (e.g., uncontrolled heart failure, recent stroke).
• Severe orthopedic limitations that would prevent participation in exercise.
• Significant cognitive impairment or psychiatric disorders that would interfere with participation.
• Inability to provide informed consent.