Effects of Early Mobilization in Elderly Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Abstract

Background: Although early mobilization is associated with improved outcomes in postoperative cardiac patients, implementation of early mobilization in elderly patients is still a challenge. Aims: In this study, we aimed to design and assess an early mobilization program for cardiac rehabilitation. Methods: We conducted a clinical trial in elderly patients aged over 65 years after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to an early mobilization group (Group A) or a routine therapy group (Group B). Short-Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (SF-IPAQ), to assessment balance Time Up and Go (TUG), to assessment functional capacity the 2-min walking test (2MWT) and the short physical performance battery (SPPB) were used as a reference to formulate and monitor the early mobilization regimen. Results: A total of 100 patients were enrolled (n = 50 per group). The mean walking distance in Group A was significantly higher at 135.6 ± 9.29 than the mean walking distance in Group B which was lower at 123.4 ± 8.48. Also, the patients in Group B had a mean SF-IPAQ of 389.44 with an SD of 85.7, P < 0.001, whereas the mean SF-IPAQ amount in Group A was 556.16 with an SD of 91.47. In early mobilization group, a strong positive connection was indicated by the correlation coefficient of r = 0.957 between the amount of SF-IPAQ and 2 MWT and there was a significant negative association r = − 0.768 between 2MWT and TUG. Conclusion: Our study’s findings suggest that early mobilization and functional exercises enhanced balance, functionality, and life quality for older cardiac patients.