A Qualitative Study Exploring Patient Concerns and Values in Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Patient-Centered Care
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) represents the advanced stage of peripheral artery disease, significantly impacting patient quality of life and health outcomes.
• Current understanding of patient values and concerns regarding CLTI treatment remains limited.
• This study addresses the need for patient-centered care by exploring patient experiences with CLTI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patients' concerns and values related to chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) treatment.
• To inform the development of patient-centered care strategies for CLTI.
• To pilot a qualitative study design for investigating patient experiences in vascular surgery.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative pilot study design was employed.
• In-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with patients preoperatively and 3 months post-discharge.
• Content analysis was used to identify patient-centered themes from transcribed interviews, mapped to a patient-centered care framework.

Main Results:

• Analysis of 12 interviews from six participants revealed five key themes: treatment/diagnosis, symptom concerns, and limitations in physical, social, and emotional function.
• Participants reported that CLTI profoundly affected all life domains.
• CLTI patients prioritized relational aspects (supportive, trustworthy care) and functional aspects (integrated, holistic care) of patient-centered care.

Conclusions:

• The study design and methodology proved feasible for gathering rich qualitative data.
• Identified themes highlight the importance of supportive, trustworthy, and holistic care for CLTI patients.
• Future research confirming these findings can significantly enhance patient-centered care for CLTI.