Late outcomes of open heart surgery in patients 70 years or older

Background. The purpose of this study is to examine the long-term survival and quality of life, including the influence of comorbidities, in patients 70 years of age and over after open heart surgery. Methods. This was a retrospective study of 401 consecutive patients, who were 70 years of age or older at the time of surgery. Survival and quality of life of these patients were measured at 6- to 8-year follow-up. Results. The 5-year survival rate was 85%, and was comparable with the age- and gender-matched West Virginia population. Survival declined with increasing preexisting comorbidities. Of the 176 respondents completing the quality of life (SF-36) survey, most scores were similar to or substantially better than the US population normative scores for individuals 70 years of age or older. Conclusions. Survival rates vary by presence or absence of specific comorbid conditions. Quality of life in the appropriately selected elderly after open heart surgery appears to be similar to the US population normative scores. (C) 2000 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.