Patient perceptions of quality of life after coronary artery surgery: was it worth it?

Quality of life and perceptions of the consequences of surgery were examined in 155 individuals having coronary bypass surgery. One year after surgery, subjects believing surgery was worth it because of functional improvement (n = 64) had more positive scores on subjective indicators of life satisfaction and mood than those believing surgery was worth it because it saved them from death (n = 62) or those who were not sure surgery was worth it (n = 23). Differences in perceptions of quality of life between the two groups who believed surgery was worth it are discussed in terms of focus of attention. Individuals who perceive improved functional ability may focus on concrete outcomes of surgery, whereas those who interpret the benefit of surgery in light of the alternative of death may focus their attention on affective aspects of recovery. Findings emphasize the need for using a multidimensional approach to studying quality of life.