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Does increased preoperative education for patients undergoing external fixation improve overall satisfaction?
Madison Smith1, Travis Alford2, Carey Clark1
1University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, United States.
Injury
|May 26, 2026
Summary
Enhanced preoperative education for lower extremity external fixator patients did not significantly improve satisfaction. However, it may reduce dissatisfaction and improve minimum scores, suggesting clinical benefits.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Patient education
- Health outcomes research
Background:
- External fixators are used for lower extremity fractures.
- Patient satisfaction is a key outcome measure in orthopedic care.
- Preoperative education may influence patient experience and satisfaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of enhanced preoperative education on patient satisfaction.
- To assess if education on managing daily activities with external fixators improves outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, randomized, double-blinded study at an academic trauma center.
- Adult patients with lower extremity fractures requiring external fixators were randomized.
- Patient satisfaction was measured using a validated questionnaire at two time points.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant difference in overall patient satisfaction between groups.
- Intervention group showed higher minimum satisfaction scores.
- Factors like fracture type and patient history influenced satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced preoperative education did not significantly increase overall patient satisfaction.
- Education may reduce dissatisfaction and improve minimum satisfaction levels.
- Potential clinical benefits warrant further investigation.
