Cardiac rehabilitation after catheter ablation of atrial fibrilation

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia worldwide. Besides antiarrhythmic drugs and electrical cardioversion, atrial fibrillation can be treated with a newer technique called catheter ablation. Patients suffering a catheter ablation can benefit from an integrated rehabilitation programme like all other patients suffering a cardiac surgery. Physical training and psycho-educative consultations are specific after catheter ablation and integrated rehabilitation can improve mental health, physical capacity and permits return to sports activities

The role of psychosocial factors and physical training for patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD) significantly reduce the mortality rate in those at high risk of sudden cardiac death. In contrast to the obvious survival benefits in this category, there are a number of psychosocial and physical-related complications with drastic repercussions on patient quality of life, and eventually on survival. The main post-implantation ICD complications are: anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress and avoidant behaviors often associated with inactivity. So far, there is no consensus on ICDs post-implant rehabilitation programs despite the evidence proven to reduce anxiety and depression, lowering the risk of arrhythmia and improving the net quality of life. In most studies up to date, cardiac rehabilitation through aerobic exercises and psychotherapeutic interventions are categorized as safe and beneficial; whereas other authors sees it as necessary as cardiovascular recovery after myocardial infarction, by-pass surgery or heart failure