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Patient Experience of Emergency Laparotomy: A Mixed Methods Study (The PEEL-2 Study)
Louise M Silva1,2, Sarah A Mohammed1, Paula J Strong1
1University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK.
World Journal of Surgery
|April 9, 2026
Summary
Emergency laparotomy (EmLap) survivors face significant physical, psychological, and socioeconomic burdens. Enhanced post-operative support is crucial for improving quality of life and patient outcomes after this high-risk surgery.
Area of Science:
- Surgery
- Patient Outcomes
- Quality of Life
Background:
- Emergency laparotomy (EmLap) is a high-risk surgical procedure for acute abdominal conditions.
- Survivorship after EmLap presents complex challenges impacting patients' well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore quality of life (QoL) and patient-reported outcomes and experiences (PROMs and PREMs) in EmLap survivors.
- To identify key factors influencing QoL and unmet needs post-EmLap.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective mixed-methods study involving surveys of EmLap patients (2016-2019).
- Data collected from institutional databases (National Emergency Laparotomy Audit - NELA).
- Analysis included QoL (EQ-5D-5L), employment, sexual function, incisional hernias, anxiety, body image, and patient experience, with thematic and statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- QoL associated with higher socioeconomic status, lower BMI, and lower ASA scores.
- Significant employment changes (40.5%), delayed sexual function recovery (11.3%), high incisional hernia rates (38.9%), and body image dissatisfaction (34.0%).
- Unmet needs identified for mental health support (22.6%), dietary guidance (10.3%), and physiotherapy (15.8%).
Conclusions:
- EmLap survivors experience substantial physical, psychological, and socioeconomic burdens.
- Tailored post-operative support systems are essential for improving care and outcomes for EmLap patients.
