Long-term quality of life after cardiac and thoracic aortic surgery for very elderly patients 85 years or older

Abstract

Purpose: We evaluated the outcomes of open heart surgery and long-term quality of life for patients 85 years and older. Methods: We enrolled 46 patients 85 years and older who underwent cardiac and thoracic aortic surgery between May 1999 and November 2012. Long-term assessment was performed for 43 patients; three patients who died in the hospital were excluded. Patient conditions were assessed before surgery,6 months and 12 months after surgery,and during the late period regarding the need for nursing care,degree of independent living,and living willingness. Results: Three patients (6.5%) died during hospitalization and 22 (51%) died during the follow-up period. The 1-,3-,5-year survival rates were 74%,49%,and 36%. During the late period,of 21 surviving patients,18 patients (85%) were living at home. The need for nursing care was comparable before and after surgery. The degree of independent living decreased after surgery. Living willingness was similar before and after surgery. Conclusion: Among patients 85 years or older who underwent open heart surgery,85% were living at home. All patients could perform activities of daily living without any assistance while maintaining living willingness.