Return-to-work studies after surgery for WPW syndrome have not previously been reported. Of 29 patients who underwent surgery for symptomatic refractory or dangerous arrhythmias, those with a follow-up period of more than 5 months were reinvestigated by their general practitioner by questionnaire. 22 patients (6 female, 16 male, mean age 35 [14-59] years) met criteria for follow-up (mean postoperative period 21.7 [5-56] months). 19 were completely symptom-free, two had palpitations due to VPB and 1 had recurrence of tachycardia. 19 are back at full-time work compared with only 13 preoperatively, 2 are working reduced hours and 1 is disabled after an accident. There were no deaths, but 1 patient was reoperated on surgical grounds. 3 patients are continuing to take vasoactive drugs. It is concluded that, in the light of clinical follow-up, 86% of patients undergoing surgery for WPW syndrome can be cured and return to work.