Usefulness of video explanation for informed consent in gynecologic surgery

To evaluate the effectiveness of a video-assisted informed consent in gynecologic surgery to determine which aspects of verbal explanations could be replaced by videos, which have shown promise to augment verbal explanations in enhancing patient comprehension and satisfaction.

This quasi-experimental study included patients aged 18 or older undergoing surgery for benign gynecologic conditions. The patients watched videos explaining their condition, surgical procedures, possible complications, and other relevant information followed by a verbal explanation from their provider. Pre- and postoperative questionnaires were used to assess patient satisfaction, understanding, and the need for additional verbal explanations.

A total of 32 patients were included, 30 of whom viewed the video and reported reduced anxiety and improved postoperative recovery. Additionally, nine patients shared the video with their families to communicate the details of the surgery. Older patients (≥50 years) required verbal explanations as well as the video and relevant documents, whereas younger patients (<50 years) were satisfied with the video alone before surgery but required verbal explanations after surgery, particularly regarding their medical condition. Furthermore, longer verbal explanations (≥30 min) improved patients' understanding of their medical condition(s).

Video-assisted informed consent improved patient understanding of and satisfaction with routine surgical information. However, personalized verbal explanations were necessary to address each individual patient's medical needs. Future research, therefore, should focus on optimizing the video content to meet each patient's needs.