Classification Into Different Patient Groups-A Step Toward Tailoring Care After Major Oncological Surgery?

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychology
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Subjective health experience influences patient outcomes after oncological surgery.
• Understanding patient group dynamics is crucial for tailored care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze changes in patient groups based on subjective health experience over time.
• To compare physical functioning and mental health across these patient groups post-oncological surgery.

Main Methods:

• Observational cohort study of 98 patients undergoing gastrointestinal or bladder oncological surgery.
• Patients were classified into groups based on acceptance and perceived control preoperatively and at 1 and 3 months post-discharge.
• Physical functioning, anxiety, and depression levels were assessed.

Main Results:

• The proportion of patients with low acceptance and perceived control increased from 31% preoperatively to 47% at 1 month and 45% at 3 months post-discharge.
• These patients exhibited significantly lower physical functioning and higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to those with high acceptance and perceived control.
• Statistical significance was observed across all time points for physical functioning (P=.030 to P=.006) and mental health (P<.001 to P=.009).

Conclusions:

• Patient classification by subjective health experience offers insights into physical and mental health status.
• Dynamic shifts in patient groups necessitate frequent evaluation to manage post-surgical recovery effectively.