“Had I only known…” : the lived experience of coronary artery bypass graft in Maltese men

Abstract

This paper aimed to explore the lived experience of undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) in Maltese men. A qualitative approach, namely Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used and semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with Maltese men. The recruited participants were all between the age of fifty-five and seventy-one. Five major themes were extrapolated from the participant’s narratives during data analysis through IPA. Prevailing factors originated from the experience involve dealing with the knowledge of undergoing major heart surgery, attitudes towards the outcome of the procedure, perceived change of self, struggles with anxiety and depression and the importance of spiritual and family support. It can be recognised that each of these factors may not only influence patients’ recovery from CABG, but may also impact a person’s entire lifetime. Subsequently, recommendations for future research proposed the implementation of a longitudinal study for better comprehension of the lasting impacts of CABG. Sustained psychological support throughout the CABG experience is also highly advised.