Work status after coronary artery bypass operation

Abstract

Cost benefit arguments have been advanced for the coronary artery bypass graft operation. Most patients experience improvement in symptoms and many can return to a productive livelihood. To estimate the rate of return to work and identify the factors influencing the outcome, we analysed the work status before and after operation in 100 consecutive patients undergoing CABG operation. Overall relief or improvement in symptoms was accomplished in 80% of the patients and there was a 5% net increase to the work force after surgery. Of all variables studied, preoperative work status and the educational level, symptomatology and patency of the CABG (in the 62 patients in whom this parameter was checked) were found to be the most relevant predictors of the postoperative return to work. Coronary artery bypass graft surgery appears to be a positive intervention for improving the work status of patients with severe coronary artery disease.