Improved quality of life after XeCl Excimer transmyocardial laser revascularization: Results of a Randomized trial

Background and Objectives: We assessed quality of life (QOL) after XeCl transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMLR). Study Design/Materials and Methods: Thirty patients were randomized to receive XeCl excimer TMLR or optimal cardiac medication (controls). QOL was assessed at baseline, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months using three different questionnaires: The Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-24 (MOS SF-24), the EuroQol Standardized Questionnaire, and the Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ). The primary outcome measure was the change in score between baseline and 12 months. Results: TMLR patients scored significantly better compared to controls in the MOS SF-24 social functioning, energy, general health, and bodily pain domains, in the EuroQol usual activity domain and the EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale, and in the SAQ physical limitation, angina frequency and disease perception domains. Conclusions: QOL significantly improved after XeCl excimer TMLR compared to medication. These results are similar to reported improvements in QOL after CO2 and Ho:YAG TMLR. Lasers Surg. Med. 33:1-7, 2003. (C) 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.