Anxiety disorders following percutaneous coronary intervention for acute myocardial infarction: A comprehensive review of clinical manifestations and interventions

Anxiety disorders following percutaneous coronary intervention for acute myocardial infarction affect approximately 20%-40% of patients, with a significantly greater prevalence in females (OR = 1.8). These disorders manifest through physiological symptoms, cognitive distortions, behavioral avoidance, and cardiac-specific concerns and typically emerge within 1-2 weeks post-procedure. Key risk factors include female sex, younger age (< 55 years), psychiatric history, procedural complexity, and poor social support. Anxiety negatively affects cardiovascular outcomes when left untreated, leading to higher readmission rates (HR = 1.47) and recurrent cardiovascular events (HR = 1.31), as well as lower medication adherence and quality of life. Screening is optimally conducted 7-10 days post-procedure via validated tools such as the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Anxiety. Heart-specific cognitive behavioral therapy (SMD = -0.72), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (especially sertraline), and integrated cardiac rehabilitation programs that incorporate both psychological and physical elements are among the beneficial interventions that have been supported by evidence. These all-encompassing strategies show long-term improvements in cardiovascular outcomes, functional ability, and healthcare expenses in addition to immediate benefits in lowering anxiety. Digital initiatives have the potential to increase access, especially in underprivileged areas. Early identification of high-risk patients and implementation of timely, targeted interventions represent crucial strategies for improving both psychological and cardiovascular outcomes in this vulnerable population.