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Shared decision-making in pediatric surgery: An overview of its application for the treatment of uncomplicated
Kelli N Patterson1, Katherine J Deans2, Peter C Minneci3
1Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
Insights
Nonoperative management (NOM) for uncomplicated appendicitis offers a safe alternative to surgery. Shared decision-making ensures patient values guide treatment choices for appendicitis, promoting patient-centered care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Clinical Decision-Making
- Patient-Centered Care
Background:
- Uncomplicated appendicitis can be managed nonoperatively (NOM) or surgically.
- NOM presents distinct risks and benefits compared to surgery.
- Informed decision-making is crucial for acute appendicitis treatment selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore shared decision-making (SDM) in acute appendicitis management.
- To highlight the role of SDM in patient-centered care for pediatric surgical conditions.
- To examine how patient/family values influence appendicitis treatment choices.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on nonoperative management of appendicitis.
- Analysis of shared decision-making principles in pediatric surgery.
- Case study examples illustrating SDM in appendicitis treatment.
Main Results:
- Nonoperative management is a viable and safe option for select appendicitis cases.
- Shared decision-making effectively incorporates patient and family values into treatment plans.
- Individualized circumstances significantly impact the choice between surgery and NOM.
Conclusions:
- Shared decision-making is essential for optimal patient-centered care in appendicitis management.
- NOM for uncomplicated appendicitis requires careful consideration of patient preferences.
- Empowering families with information facilitates informed choices regarding appendicitis treatment.
Abstract:
Nonoperative management (NOM) of uncomplicated appendicitis is a safe and effective treatment alternative to surgery that may be preferred by some families. Surgery and NOM differ significantly in their associated risks and benefits. Choosing a treatment for acute appendicitis requires patients and their caregivers to make timely, informed decisions that allow for incorporation of personal perspectives, values, and preferences. This article will address the concept of shared decision-making and establish its role in patient-centered care. It will demonstrate the effectiveness of shared decision-making in a high acuity surgical setting for children and highlight how the choice for management of acute appendicitis may be impacted by patients' and families' individualized circumstances and values.
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