The Patient Perspective on Colectomy for Recurrent Diverticulitis: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Decision-Making
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Recurrent diverticulitis treatment decisions are preference-sensitive.
• Patient perspectives on elective colectomy are not well understood.
• Qualitative research is needed to explore patient decision-making processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand the patient's decision-making process regarding colectomy for recurrent diverticulitis.
• To identify key themes influencing patient choice for elective colectomy.
• To develop a conceptual framework for patient decision-making in recurrent diverticulitis.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study using focus groups with patients experiencing recurrent diverticulitis.
• Conducted at three centers across the United States.
• Employed an iterative inductive/deductive approach to develop a conceptual framework from coded data.

Main Results:

• Thirty-nine patients participated in six focus groups.
• Key themes included beliefs about surgery (normative, control, anticipated outcomes), behavioral management, emotional experiences, symptoms, and quality of life.
• Moderating factors comprised clinical history, clinical protocols, and provider-specific elements.

Conclusions:

• Patient decisions for colectomy involve beliefs about surgery, psychosocial context, and moderating factors.
• This understanding is crucial for clinicians counseling patients considering colectomy.
• Informing researchers to optimize care for recurrent diverticulitis is essential.