Psychological Discomfort in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) in West Bank: A Cohort Study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of global mortality.
• Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, while critical, presents psychological challenges impacting patient recovery.
• Understanding these psychological impacts is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess changes in depression, anxiety, and stress levels in CABG patients.
• To identify demographic factors associated with these psychological changes.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions for psychological distress post-CABG.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study involving 200 CABG patients across six hospitals in West Bank/Palestine.
• Utilized the Arabic version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) pre-surgery and at two and three weeks post-surgery.
• Analyzed demographic data to identify correlations with psychological distress.

Main Results:

• High levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were prevalent both before and after CABG surgery.
• Statistically significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and stress were observed post-surgery (p < 0.001).
• Age showed a weak positive correlation with depression, anxiety, and stress; sex correlated weakly with pre-surgery stress.

Conclusions:

• CABG surgery patients experience significant psychological distress, which can be alleviated post-operatively.
• Early identification and intervention, including psychosocial therapy, are vital for improving patient outcomes.
• Targeted psychological support before and after CABG surgery can enhance recovery and overall well-being.