Patients' perspective on bowel resection for inflammatory bowel disease

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Patient Care

Background:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often necessitates surgical intervention, including elective bowel resection.
• Optimizing patient counseling and surgical timing is crucial for effective IBD management and improved patient satisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the adequacy of patient counseling regarding elective bowel resection for IBD.
• To evaluate patient preparedness and satisfaction with the timing of surgery.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study identified 31 IBD patients who underwent elective bowel resection.
• Patients completed phone questionnaires on consultations, preparedness, surgical timing, and outcomes.
• Demographic data and pre/post-operative attitudes were recorded.

Main Results:

• 87% found initial consultation timing appropriate; 81% felt prepared for surgery.
• 45% deemed surgery timing appropriate, while 48% felt it should have been earlier.
• Significant improvement in attitudes towards bowel resection (p=0.004); 97% satisfied with outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Most IBD patients receive adequate counseling for elective bowel resection.
• Opportunities exist to enhance preoperative education and optimize surgical timing.
• Patient satisfaction with outcomes post-bowel resection is high.