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Sachdeva M, Datchoua AM, Yakam VF, Kenfack B, Jonnalagedda-Cattin M, Thiran JP, Petignat P, Schmidt NC. Acceptability of artificial intelligence for cervical cancer screening in Dschang, Cameroon: a qualitative study on patient perspectives. Reprod Health 2024; 21:92. [PMID: 38937771 PMCID: PMC11212410 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-024-01828-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer among women, with 90% of cervical cancer-related deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries like Cameroon. Visual inspection with acetic acid is often used in low-resource settings to screen for cervical cancer; however, its accuracy can be limited. To address this issue, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne and the University Hospitals of Geneva are collaborating to develop an automated smartphone-based image classifier that serves as a computer aided diagnosis tool for cancerous lesions. The primary objective of this study is to explore the acceptability and perspectives of women in Dschang regarding the usage of a screening tool for cervical cancer relying on artificial intelligence. A secondary objective is to understand the preferred form and type of information women would like to receive regarding this artificial intelligence-based screening tool. METHODS A qualitative methodology was employed to gain better insight into the women's perspectives. Participants, aged between 30 and 49 were invited from both rural and urban regions and semi-structured interviews using a pre-tested interview guide were conducted. The focus groups were divided on the basis of level of education, as well as HPV status. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded using the ATLAS.ti software. RESULTS A total of 32 participants took part in the six focus groups, and 38% of participants had a primary level of education. The perspectives identified were classified using an adapted version of the Technology Acceptance Model. Key factors influencing the acceptability of artificial intelligence include privacy concerns, perceived usefulness, and trust in the competence of providers, accuracy of the tool as well as the potential negative impact of smartphones. CONCLUSION The results suggest that an artificial intelligence-based screening tool for cervical cancer is mostly acceptable to the women in Dschang. By ensuring patient confidentiality and by providing clear explanations, acceptance can be fostered in the community and uptake of cervical cancer screening can be improved. TRIAL REGISTRATION Ethical Cantonal Board of Geneva, Switzerland (CCER, N°2017-0110 and CER-amendment n°4) and Cameroonian National Ethics Committee for Human Health Research (N°2022/12/1518/CE/CNERSH/SP). NCT: 03757299.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malika Sachdeva
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Alida Moukam Datchoua
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Dschang Regional Annex Hospital, Dschang, Cameroon
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Virginie Flore Yakam
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Dschang Regional Annex Hospital, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Bruno Kenfack
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Dschang Regional Annex Hospital, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Magali Jonnalagedda-Cattin
- Signal Processing Laboratory LTS5, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- EssentialTech Centre, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Philippe Thiran
- Signal Processing Laboratory LTS5, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Petignat
- Gynaecology Division, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Christine Schmidt
- Gynaecology Division, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Faculty of Social Science, Catholic University of Applied Science, Munich, Germany
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2
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Martin ED, Eginli A, Munavalli GS. Developing relationships with patients, staff, and industry in dermatology. Clin Dermatol 2023; 41:262-267. [PMID: 37423266 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2023.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Maintaining a thriving dermatology practice requires thoughtful and intentional investment in relationships with patients, staff, and industry. Growing the patient-physician relationship involves optimizing patient satisfaction and outcomes, which can provide improved ratings and reimbursement. Cultivating an environment of employee engagement is also essential for promotion of patient satisfaction, employee satisfaction, and practice productivity. Additionally, relationships with industry require careful navigation to maximize its great potential for medical advancement and benefit for all parties. There are inherent conflicts of interest between physician motivation for improved patient outcomes and industry goals of increased profits. Successful management of these relationships can be a difficult task, but it remains important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise D Martin
- Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ariana Eginli
- Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Girish S Munavalli
- Dermatology, Laser & Vein Specialists of the Carolinas, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA.
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Queen D, Trager MH, Fan W, Samie FH. Patient Satisfaction of General Dermatology Providers: A Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis of 38,008 Online Reviews. JID INNOVATIONS 2021; 1:100049. [PMID: 34909746 PMCID: PMC8659734 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjidi.2021.100049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Measuring patient satisfaction of general dermatology providers is an important goal because it can lead to improved clinical outcomes. Online reviews are emerging as the newest forum for evaluating physicians in real time and provide a valuable tool for measuring patient satisfaction. We analyzed both quantitative and qualitative online reviews of general dermatology providers at 121 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education‒accredited dermatology programs across the country to determine which elements are most discussed in online ratings using the online platforms Vitals, US News, WebMD, Google Reviews, and Healthgrades. There were 38,008 online reviews included from general dermatology providers at Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education‒accredited programs. The median average overall quantitative rating of providers was 4.35 of 5. There were more positive (77%) than negative (23%) comments. The overall ratings of general dermatology providers were favorable. The most influential factors in both positive and negative comments were patient’s perceived experience and physician’s bedside manner (26% and 17%, respectively). Less important factors included office space, treatment by auxiliary staff, wait time, costs, and time spent with patients. This suggests that a provider’s personality, expressed compassion, empathy, and kindness may overcome other issues and create an overall positive experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn Queen
- Department of Medicine, Lankenau Medical Center, Main Line Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Dermatology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Megan H Trager
- Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Weijia Fan
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Faramarz H Samie
- Department of Dermatology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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4
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Unger J, Mattsson M, Drăgoi RG, Avram C, Boström C, Buttgereit F, Lackner A, Witte T, Raffeiner B, Peichl P, Durechova M, Hermann J, Stamm TA, Dejaco C. The Experiences of Functioning and Health of Patients With Primary Sjögren's Syndrome: A Multicenter Qualitative European Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:770422. [PMID: 34869487 PMCID: PMC8637170 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.770422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To identify a spectrum of perspectives on functioning and health of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) from the five European countries in order to reveal commonalities and insights in their experiences. Methods: A multicenter focus group study on the patients with pSS about their perspectives of functioning and health was performed. Focus groups were chaired by trained moderators based on an interview guide, audiotaped, and transcribed. After conducting a meaning condensation analysis of each focus group, we subsequently combined the extracted concepts from each country and mapped them to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Results: Fifty-one patients with pSS participated in 12 focus groups. We identified a total of 82 concepts meaningful to people with pSS. Of these, 55 (67%) were mentioned by the patients with pSS in at least four of five countries and 36 (44%) emerged in all the five countries. Most concepts were assigned to the ICF components activities and participation (n = 25, 30%), followed by 22 concepts (27%) that were considered to be not definable or not covered by the ICF; 15 concepts (18%) linked to body structures and functions. Participants reported several limitations in the daily life due to a mismatch between the capabilities of the person, the demands of the environment and the requirements of the activities. Conclusion: Concepts that emerged in all the five non-English speaking countries may be used to guide the development and adaption of the patient-reported outcome measures and to enhance the provision of treatment options based on the aspects meaningful to patients with pSS in clinical routine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Unger
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Department of Health Studies, Institute of Occupational Therapy, University of Applied Sciences FH JOANNEUM, Bad Gleichenberg, Austria
| | - Malin Mattsson
- Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, and Affiliated to Women's Health and Allied Health Professionals Theme, Medical Unit Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Physiotherapy, Sunderby Hospital, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Răzvan G Drăgoi
- Department of Balneology, Rehabilitation Medicine and Rheumatology, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Claudiu Avram
- Department of Physical Therapy and Special Motility, West University of Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Carina Boström
- Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, and Affiliated to Women's Health and Allied Health Professionals Theme, Medical Unit Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charitè University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Angelika Lackner
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Torsten Witte
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Hanover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Bernd Raffeiner
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital of Bolzano (SABES-ASDAA), Bolzano, Italy
| | | | - Martina Durechova
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Josef Hermann
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Tanja A Stamm
- Section for Outcomes Research, Centre for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Department of Rheumatology, Hospital of Brunico (SABES-ASDAA), Brunico, Italy
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Arruda S, Swearingen A, Medrano K, Sadick N. Subject satisfaction following treatment with nanofractional radiofrequency for the treatment and reduction of acne scarring and rhytids: A prospective study. J Cosmet Dermatol 2021; 20:3475-3481. [PMID: 34559923 PMCID: PMC9292648 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.14455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Skin‐related changes, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scarring, are a source of distress to both men and women. Nanofractional radiofrequency delivers thermal energy to skin layers leading to dermal remodeling that can address skin conditions related to aging. The objective of this study was to evaluate the subject satisfaction of nanofractional radiofrequency for the treatment of facial wrinkles and acne scarring in both lighter and darker skin tones. Materials and methods 30 subjects (skin types II‐VI) were enrolled in this prospective, evaluator‐blind study. The average age of subjects was 51.9 ± 13.5 years. Subjects received three treatments at 3‐ to 5‐week intervals on both sides of the face using the 80‐ or the 160‐pin tip disposables. Follow‐up visits were conducted at 6‐ and 12 weeks after the last treatment. Subject satisfaction was evaluated using a self‐assessment of a reduction of wrinkles or acne scars, and subject satisfaction questionnaire. Pain, tolerability, and safety were monitored throughout. Results Subjects treated for acne or wrinkles were satisfied with their treatment at both the 6‐week and 12‐week follow‐up visit (mean score 3.0; range 0 = very unsatisfied to 4 = very satisfied). The treatments were well tolerated at all treatment sessions, averaging a score of 3.5 on the tolerability scale (0 = very intolerable to 4 = very tolerable) with treatment‐associated pain reported to be mild (3.2 out of 10). There were no adverse events or unanticipated side effects. Conclusions This clinical study demonstrates subjects are satisfied with nanofractional radiofrequency treatments for improvement of their wrinkles and acne scars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suleima Arruda
- Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alyssa Swearingen
- Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kathleen Medrano
- Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Neil Sadick
- Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA.,Sadick Research Group, Sadick Dermatology, New York, New York, USA
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de Vere Hunt IJ, McNiven A, Roberts A, Parmar H, McPherson T. 'Not just a piece of skin in front of you'-a qualitative exploration of the experiences of adolescents with eczema and psoriasis with healthcare professionals. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e041108. [PMID: 33514575 PMCID: PMC7849900 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is little qualitative research in the UK focussing on adolescents' experience of their healthcare providers, and inflammatory skin conditions are a common heath problem in adolescence. AIM To explore the experiences of adolescents with eczema and psoriasis with healthcare professionals, and to distil the participants' key messages for their healthcare providers. DESIGN This is a secondary thematic analysis of interviews with adolescents with eczema or psoriasis. PARTICIPANTS There were a total of 41 text transcripts of interviews with young people with eczema or psoriasis who had given permission for secondary analysis; 23 of the participants had eczema, and 18 psoriasis. Participants were living in the UK at time of interview, and aged 15-24 years old. RESULTS We have distilled the following key messages from young people with eczema and psoriasis for healthcare providers: (1) address the emotional impact; (2) give more information, with the subtheme and (3) appreciate patient research. We identified the following eczema-specific themes: (ECZ-4) 'It's not taken seriously'; (ECZ-5) offer choice in treatment and (ECZ-6) lack of structure/conflicting advice. Two psoriasis-specific themes were identified: (PSO-4) feeling dehumanised/treat me as a person; and (PSO-5) think about how treatments will affect daily life. CONCLUSION This qualitative data analysis highlights the need for greater recognition of the emotional impact of skin disease in adolescence, and for more comprehensive provision of information about the conditions. We call for greater sensitivity and flexibility in our approach to adolescents with skin disease, with important implications for healthcare delivery to this group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abigail McNiven
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Amanda Roberts
- Centre of Evidence Based Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Tess McPherson
- Department of Dermatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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7
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Trettin B, Hansen J, Bygum A. The impact of adolescents' everyday life experiences on their primary hyperhidrosis treatment - a qualitative study. J DERMATOL TREAT 2020; 33:928-934. [PMID: 32628056 DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2020.1789541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hyperhidrosis is a disease affecting around 5% of the western population. The qualitative field within hyperhidrosis among adolescents has been sparsely investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of adolescent hyperhidrosis patients' everyday life experiences on their hyperhidrosis treatment. METHODS Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were carried out. In total, 10 adolescents, aged 12-18 years, participated in the study. Data were analyzed using a set of inseparable activities as described by Van Manen. RESULTS Three main themes were identified to represent common shared experiences across participants. The first theme was related to the impact of hyperhidrosis on the physical and psychological dimensions of life as it negatively affected both physical abilities and one's self-concept. Having hyperhidrosis was experienced as living a life in secrecy, characterized by individual routines for concealment and isolation in order to protect social identity. CONCLUSION The large negative impact of hyperhidrosis on adolescents is a strong justification for treatment of the disease. The substantial emotional distress suggests that treatment may need to include psychological support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Trettin
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Centre, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern, Odense, Denmark
| | - Julie Hansen
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Centre, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anette Bygum
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Centre, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern, Odense, Denmark
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Read C, Armstrong AW. Association Between the Mental Health of Patients With Psoriasis and Their Satisfaction With Physicians. JAMA Dermatol 2020; 156:754-762. [PMID: 32374350 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2020.1054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Importance How patients' mental health is associated with their satisfaction with physicians is rarely studied among adults with skin conditions. Objective To examine the association between mental health comorbidities in patients with psoriasis and their satisfaction with physicians. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective survey analysis used 14 years of nationally representative longitudinal data on adults in the United States with psoriasis from the 2004-2017 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Statistical analysis was performed from October 1, 2018, to December 1, 2019. Mental health comorbidities were measured by performance on the Kessler 6-Item Psychological Distress Scale (score range, 0-24, where a score ≥13 is considered an indicator of a serious mental illness and significant psychological distress) and the Patient Health Questionnaire 2 (score range, 0-6, where a score ≥3 is considered a positive screening result for a depressive disorder). Main Outcomes and Measures Patient satisfaction with physician, measured by the patient-physician communication composite score. Results A weighted total of 8 876 767 US adults with psoriasis (unweighted total, 652 patients) (weighted; 54% women; mean [SEM] age, 52.1 [0.7] years) were analyzed; 27% of adults had moderate or severe symptoms of psychological distress, and 21% had moderate or severe symptoms of depression. Patients with moderate or severe psychological distress symptoms were less satisfied with their clinicians compared with those with no or mild psychological distress symptoms (mean Kessler 6-Item Psychological Distress Scale scores for no or mild symptoms, 14.3 [95% CI, 14.2-14.4]; moderate symptoms, 13.2 [95% CI, 13.0-13.4]; and severe symptoms, 13.1 [95% CI, 12.5-13.7]; P < .001). In addition, compared with patients with no or mild psychological distress symptoms, patients with moderate psychological distress symptoms were 2.8 times more likely to report low patient satisfaction (adjusted odds ratio, 2.8 [95% CI, 1.5-4.9]; P = .001), and patients with severe psychological distress symptoms were 2.3 times more likely to report low patient satisfaction (adjusted odds ratio, 2.3 [95% CI, 1.1-4.7]; P = .03). Furthermore, patients with moderate or severe depression symptoms were less satisfied with their clinicians compared with those with no or mild depression symptoms (mean Patient Health Questionnaire 2 scores for no or mild symptoms, 14.3 [95% CI, 14.2-14.4]; moderate symptoms, 13.2 [95% CI, 12.9-13.6]; and severe symptoms, 13.0 [95% CI, 12.6-13.4]; P = .002). In addition, compared with patients with no or mild depression symptoms, patients with moderate depression symptoms were 4.6 times more likely to report low patient satisfaction (adjusted odds ratio, 4.6 [95% CI, 2.1-10.0]; P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance This study suggests that patients with greater psychological distress and depression report lower satisfaction with their clinicians than those without such mental health symptoms. Clinicians need to be adaptable and supportive when communicating with patients with mental health comorbidities. Evaluating clinician performance solely based on patient satisfaction can be problematic and incomplete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Read
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles.,Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - April W Armstrong
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
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Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Irrigation of Rotator Cuff Calcific Tendinopathy (US-PICT): Patient Experience. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:3086395. [PMID: 32596294 PMCID: PMC7303755 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3086395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To assess patients' experience of ultrasound-guided percutaneous irrigation of rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy (US-PICT). Methods Ninety-one patients (58 females; mean age: 50.5 ± 8.3 years) treated by US-PICT (local anesthesia, single-needle lavage, and intrabursal steroid injection) answered to a list of questions regarding their experience of the procedure before treatment, immediately after treatment, and three months later. The Borg CR10 scale was used to evaluate perceived pain, discomfort during anesthetic injection, and anxiety. The Wilcoxon, Spearman's rho, linear regression, and chi-square statistics were used. Results 81/91 patients complained mild discomfort during the injection of anesthetics (2, 1-2). Pain scores during US-PICT were very low (0, 0-1), with 70% patients having not experienced pain. After treatment, we found a significant reduction of pain (before: 8, 7-8; 3-month: 3, 1-6; p < .001) and anxiety (before: 5, 2-7; during treatment: 2, 1-7; p = 0.010), with high overall satisfaction (immediately after: 10, 9-10; 3-month: 9, 7-10) and confidence in the possibility of recovery (immediately after: 9, 8-10; 3-month: 10, 8-10), respectively. Treatments performed before US-PICT were not statistically associated with pain relief (p = 0.389) and clinical improvement (p = 0.937). We found a correlation between satisfaction immediately postprocedure and confidence in the possibility of recovery (p = 0.002) and between satisfaction three months after treatment and clinical improvement (p < 0.001) and patients' reminds about the description of the procedure (p = 0.005) and of the potential complications (p = 0.035). Conclusions US-PICT is a mildly painful, comfortable, and well-tolerated procedure, regardless of any previous treatments. Patients' satisfaction is correlated with clinical benefit and full explanation of the procedure and its complications.
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