Prognosis and duration of disabling effects

Ischaemic heart disease is a progressive disease, but the prognosis has improved with effective therapy, and with good surgical treatment. Modifications to lifestyle such as stopping smoking, changing diet and increasing exercise also reduce risk and improve prognosis.

The type of intervention depends upon whether the extent of coronary artery disease is single vessel, 3 vessel or left main stem vessel.

Prognosis for high-risk patients with multi-vessel disease or main vessel disease or impaired left ventricular function is improved by surgery.

In fact those who have had successful surgery or PTCA are subsequently normally free of angina and have a good quality of life.

If awaiting PTCA or CABG surgery - 1 year award

If no surgery is planned – indefinite award

All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.