Changes in mood states after coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Few studies have investigated the change in mood states, such as anger, fatigue and confusion, after coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABGS). The aim of this study was to describe the progression of these mood states over time and to determine the factors associated with these trajectories. The Profile of Mood States (POMS) was administered to 182 CABGS patients prior to surgery and at two and six months post-operatively. Socio-demographic and medical data were collected before surgery. Growth curve modelling was used to describe the POMS subscale trajectories. Four POMS subscales (tension-anxiety, fatigue-inertia, confusion-bewilderment, and vigour-activity) showed rapid improvement over the first two months after CABGS followed by a lesser improvement. There was no significant change over time for the depression-dejection and anger-hostility subscales. Being younger, male, having a manual occupation, and smoking were factors associated with poorer pre-operative mood states. Those at risk of persistent mood disturbance after CABGS were younger, unpartnered, female and those with diabetes. These patients can be identified prior to hospital admission.