Quality of Life and Social Functioning of Patients After Cardiosurgical Interventions

Abstract

The objective: to study the quality of life (QOL) and social functioning of patients who underwent cardiosurgery intervention (CSI) with the use of artificial circulation (AR) in the postoperative period, to determine and improve the system for further medical, psychological and social rehabilitation. Materials and methods. 700 patients who underwent CSI with the use of AR were treated at the Heart Institute of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. 86 patients had cerebral infarction (CI), 217 patients with signs of postoperative encephalopathy, and 504 patients with signs of cognitive dysfunction. The level of QOL and social functioning in patients with this pathology was analyzed. Statistical analysis of differences in the quantitative values of indicators was performed using the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test. Results. It was found that patients after CSI had generally low levels of QOL in all fields, namely in the indicators of psychological (emotional) well-being, general perception of life, ability to work, physical well-being, personal realization, selfcare and independence; interpersonal interaction. The presence of ischemic and neurological complications in patients after CSI significantly reduces the QOL indicators in all areas, with differences in the quantitative values of such patients statistically significant (p<0,01) compared to the groups of patients without such complications. The most significant deterioration of QOL is found in patients with cerebral infarction in the postoperative period, slightly less significant – in patients with signs of postoperative encephalopathy, and the smallest changes – in patients with signs of cognitive dysfunction. Conclusions. The main task of modern cardiac surgery is not only to save the patient from death, but also to improve the quality of life (QOL). At the same time, patients after cardiac surgery are at risk of developing ischemic, neurological complications that significantly reduce QOL in all areas of life. That is why it is necessary to take into account the findings of the study in the development of treatment and rehabilitation programs and preventive measures for such patients.