"Connected device for monitoring patients treated by prostatectomy: Implementation and qualitative assessment"

Abstract

Support care aims to improve the experience of patients. m-health is one of the tools recently developed to promote patient empowerment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the appreciation of an m-health application to enhance prostatectomy path for patients suffering from prostate cancer. A prospective monocentric study was conducted in the urology department of the University Hospital of Rennes from February to April 2023. MyCHU application was optimized by integrating information sheets in the postoperative period after prostatectomy on sphincter rehabilitation exercises, erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. The questionnaire used to evaluate the usability of "MyCHU" application was the System Usability Scale (SUS). Semi-structured interviews explored the patients' feelings about the content of the information sheets and the impact on their empowerment regarding sexual disorders. Twelve patients participated in this study and 7 agreed to complete an interview The average SUS score was 75.58, which indicate an high usability. Patients appreciated the fact that the application structured their healthcare pathway by centralizing information. The information sheets were clear and accurate. The impact on their empowerment was positive, with a gain in their ability to take ownership of the therapies. The role of digital technology in health care has been growing in recent years. Our study has shown the interest that mobile application can bring to the patient who undergoes prostatectomy. It increases his empowerment and favor the dialogue with his surgeon.