Implications of Cardiac Scarring on Body Image Disturbance Among Young Adults With Congenital Heart Defects

Abstract

Background: Many individuals with congenital heart disease (CHD) undergo open heart surgery, resulting in prominent scarring. However, little research has assessed the impact of surgical scarring on body image in this population.

Objective: Within this cross-sectional study, associations between body image concerns, anxiety and depression symptoms, and health-related quality of life among individuals with CHD were evaluated.

Methods: Young adults with CHD (N = 138) completed the Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire along with other patient-reported outcome measures.

Results: Scores on the Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire were lower (mean, 1.3 ± 0.5) than populations with diabetes amputations, craniofacial conditions, idiopathic scoliosis, and clinical controls. Higher Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire scores were reported among women ( P = .003) and were associated with greater anxiety ( P = .000) and depression ( P = .13) after controlling for sex.

Conclusions: Body image concerns related to cardiac surgery scarring are especially prominent in women and associated with greater emotional distress, suggesting potential clinical relevance for evaluating body image concerns in persons with CHD.