Delivering Breast Reconstruction Information to Patients—Part 2: Women Report on Preferred Information Content

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the type of information women want to be provided in order to make an informed decision as to whether, when, and using what technique to proceed with breast reconstruction. Method: Using purposeful sampling, 19 patients who had recently undergone various breast reconstruction procedures were recruited to each participate in a 30- to 45-minute semi-structured interview. Participants shared their insights and beliefs regarding the type of breast reconstruction information they most valued prior to undergoing breast reconstruction surgery. Participants were also queried as to perceived information gaps. In some cases, the participants’ partners or support persons were also interviewed. Grounded theory and thematic analysis assisted in interview transcript analysis. Results: Eight topics were identified relating to women’s informational needs around breast reconstruction. Examples include how to weigh the pros and cons of various breast reconstruction options to decide between flap or implant reconstruction, whether there are safety concerns with immediate breast reconstruction or nipple-sparing reconstruction, and expectations and advice on how to manage possibly unexpected intimacy issues after breast reconstruction. Conclusions: Using mixed methods research methodology, 19 women reported on preoperative informational gaps relating to their recent breast reconstruction experiences. Patients report that adequate breast reconstruction information prior to breast reconstruction surgery helps them to manage their expectations, prepare for surgery and recovery, and improve postoperative satisfaction.

Information needs in breast reconstruction after mastectomy: a qualitative analysis of free-text responses from 2077 women

“…This study found a need for more realistic information particularly in relation to possible physical outcomes, with many respondents indicating a lack of preparedness for the look, shape and feel of their reconstructed breast. These findings are similar to research from the US, New Zealand [ 26 ], Canada [ 37 ], and the UK [ 38 ], suggesting the universality of this need. Evidence suggests that decision regret is reduced when women are satisfied with information about likely BR outcomes and can set their expectations accordingly [ 39 ].…”