Activity Limitation Counseling in Dermatologic Surgery: A Survey and Retrospective Chart Review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Surgical Patient Education

Background:

• Perioperative counseling on activity limitations is crucial for patients undergoing dermatologic surgery.
• Current postoperative instructions may not meet patient expectations, potentially impacting their planning and compliance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand patient expectations for counseling on postoperative activity limitations.
• To assess if enhanced counseling influences pre- or postoperative patient planning.

Main Methods:

• A phone survey was conducted with patients who had undergone excisions.
• Data collected included activity levels, post-surgery changes, counseling received, and expectations.
• Multivariable logistic regression analyzed factors influencing patient perceptions.

Main Results:

• Patients receiving expected counseling were less likely to need to reschedule or adjust plans.
• Additional counseling did not significantly alter patient arrangements if expectations were met.
• Younger patients and those with lower extremity surgery reported longer activity limitations.

Conclusions:

• Transparent instructions on activity limitations empower patients to make informed decisions.
• Adjusting postoperative instructions can enhance patient understanding, compliance, and surgical experience quality.