This descriptive and observational study aimed to measure the quality of life of patients after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Quality of life (QOL) was measured using the 15-item Flanagan Quality of Life Scale, modified by adding a 16th item on independence, as recommended by Burckhardt and her collaborators. 124 patients were interviewed, average age was 62 years, most patients were male (62.1%) and average time after surgery was 2.49 years. Scores ranged from 44 to 112 (sample mean=84.79 and s=13.54) (possible range from 16 to 112), in which higher values indicate greater satisfaction with quality of life. The results on quality of life reflected high satisfaction levels as to the aspects approached by the instrument, with cardiac patients ranging from satisfied to quite satisfied with their quality of life. The following items came up as greatest sources of satisfaction: having and raising children and relationships with friends, while patients were least satisfied about participating in recreation activities and sports and health.
quality of life; thoracic surgery
