Return to work after coronary artery surgery for angina

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Occupational Health
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Angina pectoris frequently leads to work disability.
• Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a common treatment for severe angina.
• Pre-operative work status is a key indicator of patient recovery and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of CABG on patients' return to work.
• To evaluate the duration and sustainability of employment post-CABG.
• To understand the relationship between symptomatic relief and occupational rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Prospective assessment of 115 consecutive patients undergoing CABG.
• Data collection on pre-operative work status, reasons for absence, and post-operative employment.
• Follow-up evaluation of return to work, occupation type, and time to re-employment.

Main Results:

• 68 patients (59%) were unable to work pre-CABG due to angina, with most off work for 6-24 months.
• 75 patients (65%) returned to full-time work post-CABG, 59 within 2-6 months.
• Most patients returned to their original occupations, indicating successful functional recovery.

Conclusions:

• CABG provides significant symptomatic relief, enabling a substantial return to gainful employment.
• The surgery not only improves health but also enhances patients' capacity to maintain employment.
• Occupational rehabilitation is a critical component of recovery following coronary artery bypass grafting.