Factors Influencing Postoperative Quality of Life in Korean Brain Tumor Survivors

BACKGROUND: Patients with brain tumors continue to exhibit a lower quality of life than the general population, even after an extended period after surgery. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the postoperative quality of life of patients with brain tumors in South Korea and explore its determinants. METHODS: This study used a descriptive correlational design and collected data using questionnaires and electronic medical records. The collected data included the participants' characteristics, anxiety and depression levels, uncertainty, social support, and quality of life. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 29.0, with descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis. RESULTS: Of the 117 subjects, 84 (71.8%) had benign tumors, and 33 (28.2%) had malignant tumors, with an average postoperative duration of 42.7 (51.0) months. Thirty-four participants (29%) reported experiencing depression, whereas the average uncertainty score was 91.8 (12.0) points. The average quality-of-life score was 67.52 (20.31) points, indicating a lower quality of life compared with the general population. Lower average monthly income (β = 0.174, P = .044), higher depression levels (β = -0.413, P < .001), and greater uncertainty (β = -0.230, P = .025) were associated with reduced quality of life. In terms of social support, family support was linked to quality of life but did not have a significant influence ( P = .780), whereas healthcare provider support significantly affected quality of life ( P = .015). CONCLUSION: This study highlights the persistent decline in the postoperative quality of life of patients with brain tumors due to depression and uncertainty, emphasizing the need for healthcare provider support. Clarifying these challenges, it may serve as a basis for developing nursing interventions to enhance survivors' long-term quality of life.