Myocardial revascularization in patients < or = 45 years old: evaluation of cardial and functional capacity, and return to work.

Objective: To investigate whether patients < or = 45 years old benefit from myocardial revascularization, measured by New York Heart classification, functional status and return to work.
Methods: The data of 188 consecutive patients 45 years old and younger, and who were undergoing primary isolated aortocoronary bypass operation, were studied. Follow-up information was obtained from our follow-up databank. A cross-sectional follow-up was conducted and an additional functional evaluation by the Duke Activity Status Index and the work situation.
Results: The follow-up, was complete for 98.2% of patients and showed a survival rate of 99% at 12 and 86.1% at 120 months. Eight patients died during follow-up. There was a significant improvement of NYHA classification. The Dukes Activity Status Index showed a good correlation with the NYHA class; however, only 47% of the patients returned to work.