232 “SuturesApp”: A Digital Application to Improve Cancer Patients” Understanding of Surgical Procedures

Abstract

Abstract Aim Patient participation in decision making is of utmost importance, particularly in oncological surgery where body image altering procedures may be required. “SuturesApp” is a digital application developed by oncological surgeons in a low-middle income setting and where users can replicate any resection and/or reconstruction technique on the screen. The study is an interpretation of surgical residents’ opinion of the use of a digital application in comparison to traditional modalities (pen and paper) used to explain surgical procedures to patients. Method This is a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews conducted with surgical trainees following the use of “SuturesApp” for a 1-week period from July 13th to July 20th, 2020, in order to depict possible outcomes of “SuturesApp” use in comparison to pen and paper in explaining surgical procedures and body image changes in oncological surgery. Participants number was determined according to data saturation when no more new themes emerged from the individual interviews. Results Fifteen surgical residents were interviewed after using “SuturesApp'' for a 1-week period in preoperative consultations. Successful patient-surgeon communication faces the challenges of workload and illiteracy, which surgical residents try to overcome with verbal communication and drawing. The use of SuturesApp can provide a frame for the progressive explanation and visualization of procedures, despite the need for improvements. Conclusions The use of SuturesApp alongside verbal communication and drawing can benefit patient understanding and adherence to treatment, as well as future surgeons’ communication skills. A next step would be to further develop “SuturesApp” and engage patients in the process.