Health-related quality of life and arrhythmia frequency following coronary artery bypass grafting surgery: a descriptive study

Introduction Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) surgery is the preferred method in Coronary Artery Disease, particularly in patients with multi-vessel disease and impaired left ventricular function. Besides the success of surgical intervention, achieving a good level of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) is the primary goal of the entire process. Objective The aim of our study is to evaluate HRQoL before and after CABG surgery and to assess the adherence to pharmacotherapy and the frequency of arrhythmias postoperatively during a 6- month follow-up period. Methods The study design involves a descriptive longitudinal study. The study was conducted in one public hospital and two private hospitals of Cyprus. The follow-up period for participants was determined at 6 months post-CABG surgery. HRQoL assessment was conducted using the MacNew questionnaire, and the evaluation of arrhythmias and other clinical data was performed using a Clinical Data Evaluation Form created for the study purposes. Results Our study included 103 people who had undergone CABG surgery. HRQoL decreased at 3 months post-CABG surgery compared to the preoperative period (Mean: 5.03, SD: ±1.02 vs Mean: 4.75, SD: ±1.00) but improved at 6 months post-surgery (Mean: 6.19, SD: ±0.67). Among the total of patients, 21 (20.6%) developed Atrial Fibrillation (AF) postoperatively. All patients with AF received immediate treatment, and sinus rhythm was restored. Additionally, 6 patients developed other types of arrhythmias, among whom 1 patient experienced cardiac arrest with an initial asystole rhythm and eventually passed away. Conclusion CABG significantly affects HRQoL, showing a temporary decline postoperatively followed by improvement. Arrhythmias and compliance with pharmacotherapy are crucial aspects of postoperative care.