Body image before and after coronary artery bypass graft surgery: comparison and its contributing factors

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the world. Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is among the treatment options for coronary artery disease. However, it is associated with significant physical and psychological problems. This study sought to compare body image before and after the surgery and to determine its contributing factors. Methods: This comparative study was conducted in 2017 on a sample of 140 patients consecutively recruited from Shahid Beheshti hospital, Kashan, Iran. Body image was assessed before and 4 weeks after the surgery (T1 and T2) using Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire. The independent-sample and paired t tests, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation test, and multiple regression were conducted for data analysis. Results: Participants' mean score of body image was 139.60 ± 13.21 at T1 and 160.25 ± 7.75 at T2 and the variation was statistically significant (p = < 0.001). At T1, only the three factors of age (p = 0.005), education at high school diploma and higher levels (p < 0.001), and being housekeeper (P = 0.048) could significantly explain BI (R 2 = 0.231). However, at T2, none of the factors were significant predictors for BI (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Candidates for CABG have poor body image. After the surgery, their body image improves significantly. Healthcare providers need to employ programs to improve body image among these patients.

Patient-Reported Outcomes in Cardiovascular Trials

“…31,32 After cardiac surgery, a patient's altered body image perception can put them at higher risk of depression and anxiety. 33 Body disfigurement associated with scars at multiple surgical sites can significantly alter body image perception resulting in traumatic psychological effects, low self-esteem, and impair social interactions and functioning in both adult and pediatric populations. 32,34 Specific body image outcome assessments include the Body Image Questionnaire (BIQ), Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) v2.0, 31 and the Multidimensional Body Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ).…”

“…35 In a study with CABG patients, a cardiac rehabilitation intervention was associated with better physical function and MBSRQ scores, indicating better body image postoperatively. 33 Overall, prior to enrolling in a surgical cardiac clinical trial, there should transparent communication with patients about realistic expectations about the recovery process and postoperative body image. 33 Physical function-The domain of physical function refers to the ability to do basic and instrumental activities of daily living, 36 including routine activities such as walking, exercising, and playing sports.…”

“…33 Overall, prior to enrolling in a surgical cardiac clinical trial, there should transparent communication with patients about realistic expectations about the recovery process and postoperative body image. 33 Physical function-The domain of physical function refers to the ability to do basic and instrumental activities of daily living, 36 including routine activities such as walking, exercising, and playing sports. In cardiac clinical trials, there are multiple ways to measure physical function that are both generic and disease-specific for patients with multiple cardiac conditions.…”