Determinants of work capability and employment after coronary artery surgery

In 120 patients subjected to coronary artery surgery we have investigated employment statusand work capability in relation to age, pre-operative ventricular function and extent of coronary artery disease, perioperative infarction and post-operative angina. The patients were followed up for 6 to 23 months (mean 10 months). Fifty-three out of 74 patients (72%) employed before the onset of angina, returned to work after operation. Return to work was more likely in patients working immediately prior to surgery and in patients less than 45 years old (P <0.05). Sixty patients (50%) reported a return to normal work capability, the most striking changes occurring in those less than 45 years old (P < 0.02). Pre-operative left ventricular (LV) function and extent of coronary disease and mode of employment did not correlate withpost-operative employment status but normal LV function was related to improvement in work capability (P<0.02). Return to work after coronary bypass surgery is mainly due to angina reliefbut is also related to age and pre-operative work status.