Occupational capacity following surgical revascularization for lower limb claudication

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Occupational Health
• Patient Outcomes

Background:

• Limited data exists on return to work post-surgical revascularization for lower limb claudication.
• Understanding employment status is crucial for patient recovery and economic impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the effect of lower limb surgical revascularization on subsequent employment status.
• To identify factors influencing return to work after surgery for intermittent claudication.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of patients (<65 years) undergoing surgical revascularization (Feb 2001-Feb 2005).
• Data collected via postal questionnaires from a prospective database.
• Analysis of employment status pre- and post-operatively.

Main Results:

• 80/120 (66.7%) patients returned questionnaires.
• 51/80 patients returned to work post-surgery.
• Return to work was delayed by aortic procedures and non-intermediate occupations; older patients were more likely to retire.

Conclusions:

• Two-thirds of employable patients with claudication return to work after surgery.
• Return to work is influenced by patient age, surgical procedure type, and pre-operative occupation.
• Findings can aid in predicting return to work for patients undergoing surgery for intermittent claudication.