Retention or resumption of employment after aortocoronary bypass operations

Employment status and factors related to resumption of employment were studied in 564 male patients one and four years following an aortocoronary bypass operation. For age categories of less than 55, 55 to 59, and 60 years or older at the time of the operation, 90%, 68%, and 44%, respectively, remained employed four years later. Age at the time of the operation, development of angina pectoris after the operation, a previous myocardial infarction, and the physical requirements of the patient's employment were found to be related to the decision not to work four years after the operation. Of patients not employed prior to the operation, 22% were employed four years later.