H-FABP Levels and Psycho-Emotional Improvement of CABG Patients during Cardiac Rehabilitation

Abstract

(1) Background: The heart-type fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP) is a specific myocardial biomarker and high levels indicate ischemia regardless of patient-reported symptoms. Concurrently, major adverse cardiovascular events and surgery such as coronary artery by-pass grafting (CABG) cause substantial psycho-emotional distress e.g., depression and anxiety. Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation is, therefore, essential to both physical and psychological recovery. (2) Methods: This is a unicentric, prospective study on 120 consecutive post-CABG patients undergoing a 6-month cardiac rehabilitation program based on physical exercise, Mediterranean diet principles, and Q10 coenzyme antioxidant supplements. H-FABP levels, depression, and anxiety scores (Hamilton HAM-D and HAM-A scales) were monitored after surgery and at 6 months. (3) Results: Mean H-FABP dropped from 60.56 to 4.81. Physical ability increased from 1–2 to 4–5 METS. Mean depression and anxiety improved from 15.88 to 6.96 and from 25.13 to 15.68, respectively. Median scores went down 50% for depression and 9% for anxiety. Explored associations between H-FABP and psycho-emotional status were statistically insignificant. (4) Conclusions: patients adhered to the program and improved significantly in all studied aspects. Clinical significance is discussed in the context of countries like Romania, where such programs are limited by systemic and financial constraints. Further research directions are identified.