Type A behavior and blood pressure during coronary artery bypass surgery

Systemic hypertension has been reported as common during coronary artery bypass surgery. The coronary-prone Type A behavior pattern has been associated with heightened reactivity of the sympathetic nervous system. Therefore, the possible relationships between the two was explored. Significant correlations were found between systolic blood pressure rise during surgery and interview ratings of overall Type A (p < 0.05), aggressive content (p < 0.01), and job commitment (p < 0.001). A statistically association was also found between diastolic pressure rise and the job commitment rating (p < 0.01). Significant correlations were still present after controlling for the role of physical predictors of blood pressure rise by statistical multiple regression analysis. The data suggest that patients with Type A behavior characteristics manifest an autonomic hyperactivity which is present under general anesthesia. This hyperactivity may contribute to the association of Type A behavior pattern and coronary heart disease.