From cath lab to cloud: a scoping review on telehealth and remote monitoring in post-PCI patients

Abstract Background Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a key treatment for coronary artery disease, but optimal recovery requires effective secondary prevention. Despite guideline support, participation in conventional cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is low due to logistical, socioeconomic, and access barriers. Telehealth, mobile health (mHealth), and remote monitoring offer promising alternatives to improve post-PCI care, adherence, and outcomes. Objective This scoping review aimed to map and synthesize research on telehealth and remote monitoring interventions for patients after PCI, focusing on implementation, clinical outcomes, and patient engagement. Methods Using the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review framework, we searched PubMed and Google Scholar for English peer-reviewed original studies from January 2020 to April 2025. Included studies involved human post-PCI patients and evaluated telehealth, telemedicine, or remote monitoring. Reviews, protocols, non-English papers, and unrelated studies were excluded. Screening and data extraction were independently done by multiple reviewers. Results Out of 191 records, 12 studies met our criteria. Interventions included mHealth apps, hybrid CR programs, wearable devices, teleconsultations, and remote disease management platforms. Outcomes showed improved CR participation, medication adherence, physical activity, quality of life, and psychological health. Home-based and hybrid CR models were often noninferior to traditional center-based programs. Interactive education, live coaching, and biometric feedback enhanced patient engagement. Limitations included study heterogeneity, short follow-up, and few hard clinical endpoints. Conclusion Telehealth and remote monitoring can overcome barriers in post-PCI care, offering personalized, accessible rehabilitation. Future studies should explore long-term outcomes, scalability, and cost-effectiveness to support wider adoption in cardiovascular care.