[Early rehabilitation following myocardial infarct--results and conclusions]

Carried out within the framework of the GDR myocardial infarction control programme, the study presents the organisational model of early rehabilitation of postinfarction patients in convalescence (phase II according to WHO) in health resorts and sanatoria. By referring to a multicentric study conducted on 5,069 patients in sanatoria of the GDR, a higher physical performance and cardiac relaxation are set forth as essential results, coupled with a decline in the sympathico-adrenergic response, which are concomitant with an improved state of health. Twelve months following the cure, 77% of the patients regained their ability to work, with 71% of them back in their former jobs.