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Information Transparency for Elective Stature Lengthening Surgery: A Secret Shopper Study
Devika A Shenoy1, Gabriel Santamaria2, Francisco Gomez-Alvarado3
1School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America.
Background:
Elective stature lengthening (ESL) has gained popularity among individuals seeking to increase their height. Despite its growing appeal, online information about ESL often lacks consistency and transparency. This study evaluates the quality and comprehensiveness of online resources available to prospective patients, focusing on clarity in communication, cost, recovery expectations, and complications.
Methods:
Using a secret shopper methodology, we contacted 27 eligible orthopaedic practices globally that offered ESL, posing as a healthy 35-year-old male seeking ESL. Practices were contacted via email and follow-up phone calls using a standardised script. Responses were analysed to evaluate the availability, depth, and variability of information on key topics, including surgery duration, recovery time, cost, insurance coverage, and complications.
Results:
Contact was successfully established with 17 (63%) of practices. However, only 3/27 (11%) of the contacted practices answered all scripted questions. Cost estimates varied substantially, ranging from $15,000 to $150,118 (mean = $77,133, SD = $35,603.58). Recovery time was similarly variable, ranging from 2 to 365 days (mean = 202 days, SD = 137.27). Crucial details, such as patient eligibility and potential complications, were frequently omitted.
Conclusion:
The study highlights a critical need for improved transparency and standardisation in online resources for ESL. Addressing these gaps could enhance patient trust, satisfaction, and informed decision-making, underscoring the importance of establishing guidelines for consistent communication in this emerging field.
How To Cite This Article:
Shenoy DA, Santamaria G, Gomez-Alvarado F, et al. Information Transparency for Elective Stature Lengthening Surgery: A Secret Shopper Study. Strategies Trauma Limb Reconstr 2025;20(1):31-36.
