Psychiatric assessments in patients operated on due to lung cancer

Abstract

Background This study was undertaken to determine the relationship between preoperative and postoperative psychiatric status and postoperative complications in patients operated on due to lung cancer. Methods We prospectively enrolled 25 patients undergoing surgery with a diagnosis of lung cancer. There were 17 (68%) males, 8 (32%) females, and the mean age was 61 ± 8.9 years (range 38–81 years). Their psychiatric status was assessed using the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale II, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire C30, Perceived Family Support Scale, the combined Stress Thermometer and Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale, in the preoperative period, and the Perceived Family Support, Stress Thermometer, and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire C30 at 1 month postoperatively. Results We found that 44% of patients had depression and 28% had anxiety. There was no difference between sexes in terms of anxiety ( p = 0.088), but more women had depression ( p = 0.03). Postoperative complications occurred in 5 of 18 patients with negligible anxiety scores (27.8%) and 3 (42.9%) of 7 patients with high scores, as well as 3 (21.4%) patients with negligible depression scores and 5 (45.5%) of 11 patients with high scores. Conclusions Patients selected for lung cancer surgery should be assessed preoperatively using the Hospital Anxiety-Depression Scale and Stress Thermometer. Psychosocial support is recommended to improve their quality of life and reduce postoperative complications.