Comparative analysis of aerobic cardiorespiratory training of high and moderate intensity in cardiac surgery profile patients

Aim. The aim of our study was to conduct a comparative analysis of aerobic high-intensity interval training and constant moderate intensity training in cardiac rehabilitation of adult patients after open-heart surgery, namely after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Material and methods. 137 patients after CABG were included in the study. 90.4% of patients were consider as class I of chronic heart failure after surgery. Cardiorespiratory trainings were initiate in 4 weeks after surgery, using cycling by veloergometers. Two groups were compare according to rehabilitation programs: one carried out constant aerobic trainings of moderate and medium intensity, and the other, aerobic high-intensity interval trainings. Supervised trainings were carry out for 150 minutes per week. Total length of trainings was 4–7 weeks. Long-term trainings were distantly monitore.

Results. Ergospirometric results as well as results of echocardiography were significantly improve after training course. These results were more significant in high-intensity interval training group, compared to moderate intensity-training group. VO₂, heart rate and training power significantly improved. Body mass index significantly diminished in high-intensity interval training group, compared to moderate intensity-training group. In 7 weeks after training ominously decreased blood triglycerides and increased high-density lipoproteins.

Conclusion. Cardiorespiratory trainings ameliorate mitochondrial biogenesis, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, promote to reduce abdominal obesity and other crucial risk factors of coronary patients. Aerobic high-intensity interval cardiac trainings are as safe as moderate intensity cardiac trainings, and in some issues, they outperform moderate intensity cardiac trainings.