Post-CABG Cardiac Rehabilitation in India: A Complete Guide
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is one of the most commonly performed heart surgeries in India. But recovery doesn’t end in the operating room — post-surgical cardiac rehabilitation plays a crucial role in long-term success. India offers structured, affordable, and medically supervised rehabilitation programs for both domestic and international patients. This guide explains what cardiac rehab involves, why it matters, and what to expect during recovery after CABG in India.
What Is Cardiac Rehabilitation?
Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a medically supervised program that supports your recovery after heart surgery or treatment. It helps you regain physical strength, reduce future cardiac risk, and improve quality of life. For CABG patients, rehab is essential for full functional recovery.
Phases of Cardiac Rehabilitation
In India, most hospitals and cardiac centers follow the global standard 3-phase rehabilitation model:
- Phase I – In-Hospital Recovery: Begins immediately after surgery; focuses on mobility, breathing exercises, and preventing complications.
- Phase II – Supervised Rehab: Outpatient-based; includes monitored physical therapy, diet management, medication review, and psychological support.
- Phase III – Maintenance & Lifestyle: Continued home-based programs focusing on exercise routines, diet, and long-term cardiac wellness.
Key Components of Rehab Programs in India
Whether you're in Delhi, Chennai, or Bangalore, top hospitals offer structured cardiac rehab that includes:
- Customized exercise training under supervision
- ECG monitoring and blood pressure checks
- Dietary guidance by clinical nutritionists
- Stress and anxiety counseling
- Patient education sessions
- Smoking cessation and weight loss support
Why International Patients Choose India for Rehab
Post-surgery rehab in India offers unique advantages:
- World-class programs at affordable prices
- Bilingual staff with experience handling foreign patients
- Option to extend stay for rehab + tourism
- Tailored programs for elderly or high-risk patients
Many medical tourists opt to remain in India for Phase II rehab before flying home.
Typical Duration and Cost
The average rehab program lasts 4 to 6 weeks, with 2–3 sessions per week. Costs vary based on hospital, but are generally:
- ₹1,000–₹2,500 per session for supervised therapy
- ₹25,000–₹40,000 total for a 1-month program
This is significantly more affordable than rehab in the US or UK, where prices may exceed $5,000 for similar programs.
How to Enroll in a Rehab Program
If you're planning surgery in India, request a bundled package that includes rehab services. Hospitals like Medanta, Fortis, Apollo, and Narayana Health all offer structured cardiac rehab with trained physiotherapists.
For international patients, coordinators assist with post-op planning and long-term follow-up.
Rehab for Special Populations
India also offers specialized rehab for:
- Elderly patients with mobility or balance concerns (see: elderly cardiac surgery guide)
- Post-transplant patients requiring gradual reintegration (see: heart transplant in India)
Programs are adjusted based on each patient's age, strength, and cardiac history.
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