Patient preparedness: an important predictor of surgical outcome

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the influence of patient readiness for reconstructive pelvic surgery on surgical outcomes.

Study design: After undergoing standardized informed consent, consecutive women planning pelvic surgery completed a questionnaire assessing their knowledge and readiness for surgery pre- and postoperatively. Subjects underwent standardized follow-up 3 months after surgery, including postoperative satisfaction questionnaire and validated condition specific quality of life (QOL) and global improvement scales. All subjects had standardized urogynecologic evaluation pre- and postoperatively.

Results: The 79 women who completed preparedness questionnaires self-rated their symptom severity as severe (34%), moderate (58%), and mild (8%). Preparedness was associated with postoperative improvement (P = .003), complete satisfaction (P = .0005), and improved QOL (P = .02). Objective measures of cure did not differ by preparedness.

Conclusion: Readiness for reconstructive pelvic surgery is measurable and associated with patient-perceived surgical outcome. Satisfaction, symptom improvement, and QOL are strongly associated with patients' expectations and preparedness.