Reduced cardiac output and exercise capacity in patients after MI

This article summarizes the literature and suggests directions for future research concerning rehabilitation potential, impairment, and reduced cardiac output after myocardial infarction (MI). Current evidence suggests that cardiac output and maximal exercise capacity are reduced in some post-MI patients. The conceptual model of rehabilitation potential presented emphasizes the need for careful assessment of the state of underlying pathology present after MI when evaluating the response to exercise or exercise training.