ABSTRACT
The heart consists of four chambers, the 'upper' right and left atrium, and the 'lower' right and left ventricles. The left artery further divides into the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and the circumflex artery (Cx), supplying blood to different regions of the myocardium. For a more in depth discussion of cardiovascular physiology, consult Levick. Atherosclerosis is the term used to describe the changing physiology and structure of the arterial wall that results in endothelial dysfunction and causes the narrowing of the arterial lumen. A myocardial infarction (MI) is caused by the same atherosclerotic process as angina, but refers to the death of the myocardium caused by complete restriction of oxygen due to plaque rupture. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a multi-disciplinary, professionally-supervised intervention that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of cardiac patients. Substantial evidence supports the incorporation of exercise within CR programmes to promote the recovery of physical and psychological health.
