Patient Satisfaction Research Articles

EP169 - Volume Replacement Perforator Flaps: Introducing a New Service to a DGH Oncoplastic Surgical Unit

Abstract Aims Oncoplastic breast conserving surgery (BCS) has developed to facilitate adequate oncological resection whilst maintaining cosmesis. Volume replacement surgery allows immediate reconstruction with transposition of autologous tissue. One approach is the use of chest wall perforator flaps (CWPF). This increases access for patients to enhanced oncoplastic techniques facilitating BCS, in the setting of larger tumour size, reducing the mastectomy rate in our unit. Our aim was to analyse a series of patients undergoing CWPF in our DGH and determine whether oncological outcomes were comparable to traditional breast conserving surgery. Methods Patients undergoing CWPF reconstruction were identified using theatre records for a period of 12 months (Jan-Dec2023). Data was collected including patient demographics, histopathological findings and post-operative course and treatments. Results A total of seven patients were identified with median age 48 . Range of tumour sizes: 17mm-51mm. All were performed in the immediate setting with all undergoing SLNB. 3/7 required further surgery in the form of re-excision of margins. One patient developed a seroma, requiring aspiration once without further complication. Patient satisfaction is anecdotally high; however, this has not been quantified. Conclusions The utilisation of CWPF within our DGH has shown satisfactory outcomes. Performing these in the immediate setting means some patients have required re-excision of margins and replacement of flaps (similar to local figures for WLE without volume replacement) without impacting patient satisfaction. We advocate that CWPF significantly increases the options available as routine practice for suitable patients. OBCS is possible within the DGH without compromising oncological treatments or cosmesis.

WP5.9 - Emergency laparotomies in the elderly: a patient perspective

Abstract Aims Emergency laparotomy is known to convey worse morbidity and mortality for elderly patients. Despite a growing elderly population, there is a limited understanding of the patient experience in emergency laparotomy. This study aims to assess patient satisfaction following emergency laparotomy. Methods Patients were identified from the National Emergency Laparotomy Audit (NELA) database, who were aged 80 and above, and underwent surgery between: January 2020 and August 2023 at Torbay Hospital. Of the patients who survived to discharge, a telephone-based interview was undertaken in January 2024. Exclusion criteria included: confusion, severe illness and relook laparotomy. Data were collected on functional status and satisfaction with the procedure. Patients were also asked what they wished they known prior to the operation. Post-operative outcomes were assessed in a separate study. Results 132 cases were undertaken in this period. 72 cases met inclusion criteria. We achieved a 61% response rate. 59% of respondents were living independently post operatively and 61% had no functional decline. 93% of respondents were happy to have had the operation and if given the opportunity again would still have had the procedure. Patients were overall very happy with the information offered prior to the procedure, 7% felt they had no alternative option. One patient was not satisfied with the follow up received. Conclusions Although emergency laparotomy in the elderly is high risk, our data demonstrate excellent patient satisfaction. This study provides a better understanding of what is important to patients; this should be considered in the consent process and communication.

ThP3.6 - Long Term Surgical Outcome of Complete Intrathoracic Stomach (CIS)

Abstract Background & Aims Surgery is required for medically fit symptomatic CIS patients to avoid complications (volvulus, obstruction & strangulation) that have high morbidity & mortality. To assess the long term outcome including QOL (quality of life) for patients who underwent laparoscopic biological hiatal mesh reconstruction for CIS (100%). Methods Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected of 34 CIS of 154 consecutive GPEH(Giant Para-Esophageal Hernia) patients intervened between March 2008- December 2023 in a large DGH. Data collected included demographics, BMI, ASA, Preoperative investigations (OGD & Computerised Tomography), operative details including complications, & standardised GERD-Health Related Quality of Life Questionnaire(GERD-QOL) scores of 0-5, 6-10, 11-15 & more than 15 as excellent, good, fair & poor respectively (pre-operatively, 6-month post-operative & long-term), postoperative diet, SOB (shortness of breath) & patient satisfaction. Results 34 included M:F 11: 23, age 72*(45-83) years, BMI 29 *(20-43), ASA III *(II-III). 20(59%), 20(59%), 18(53%), 14(41%), 14(41%) & 12(35%) had heartburn, dysphagia, retrosternal discomfort, vomiting, weight loss and SOB respectively. 6 (18%) emergencies, 22 (65%) incomplete OGDs, operative time 210* (150-510) mins, 1(3%) conversion, 3*(9%) surgical mortality & PO stay 3*(2-27) days. Pre and 6-month post surgery GERD-QOL poor (≥15) & excellent (<5) in 21(62%) & 32(94%) respectively with 32(94%) excellent satisfaction. Follow up at 102*(16-190) months had 2 more unrelated deaths, 21(72%) contacted with GERD-QOL excellent (<5) in 14(67%), poor 1(5%), 19(90%) solid diet, 2(10%) SOB with 19(90%) excellent satisfaction. Conclusion Favourable long term outcome achieved here supports complex surgery for this debilitating condition in the medically fit symptomatic elderly patients. * Median

Application of linaclotide in bowel preparation for colonoscopy in patients with constipation: A prospective randomized controlled study.

Colonoscopy plays a crucial role in the early diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer. Adequate bowel preparation is essential for clear visualization of the colonic mucosa and lesion detection. However, inadequate bowel preparation is common in patients with constipation, and there is no standardized preparation protocol for these patients. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness and tolerability of a pre-colonoscopy combination regimen of linaclotide and polyethylene glycol (PEG). In this prospective, single-center, randomized controlled trial, 322 participants were divided into two groups: a 3-L PEG+870-μg linaclotide group (administered as a single dose for 3days) and a 4-L PEG group. The primary endpoints were the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS) score and the rate of adequate and excellent bowel preparation. Secondary endpoints were the rates of detection of colonic adenomas and polyps, cecal intubation rates, colonoscopy time, adverse reactions, patient satisfaction, and physician satisfaction. The study included 319 patients. The 3-L PEG+linaclotide group showed significantly higher rates of adequate and excellent bowel preparation than the 4-L PEG group (89.4% vs 73.6% and 37.5% vs 25.3%, respectively; P<0.05). The mean BBPS score for the right colon in the 3-L PEG+linaclotide group was significantly higher than that in the 4-L PEG group. There were no significant between-group differences regarding the detection rates of colonic polyps and adenomas (44.4% vs 37.7% and 23.1% vs 20.1%, respectively; P>0.05). There were no significant between-group differences regarding cecal intubation rates, colonoscopy operation, and withdrawal times. However, patient tolerance and sleep quality were better in the 3-L PEG+linaclotide group. The combination of 3-L PEG and 870-μg linaclotide, because of its lower volume of intake, can be considered as an alternative bowel preparation regimen for constipated patients undergoing colonoscopy, especially for the elderly.

SAME day amBulatory c (SAMBA): a multicenter, prospective, randomized clinical trial protocol

BackgroundA recent meta-analysis concluded that outpatient appendectomy appears feasible and safe, but there is a lack of high-quality evidence and a randomized trial is needed. The aim of this trial is to demonstrate that outpatient appendectomy is non-inferior to conventional inpatient appendectomy in terms of overall morbi-mortality on the 30th postoperative day (D30).MethodsSAMBA is a prospective, randomized, controlled, multicenter non-inferiority trial. We will include 1400 patients admitted to 15 French hospitals between January 2023 and June 2025. Inclusion criteria are patients aged between 15 and 74 years presenting acute uncomplicated appendicitis suitable to be operated by laparoscopy.Patients will be randomized to receive outpatient care (day-surgery) or conventional inpatient care with overnight hospitalization in the surgery department. The primary outcome is postoperative morbi-mortality at D30. Secondary outcomes include time from diagnosis to appendectomy, length of total hospital stay, re-hospitalization, interventional radiology, re-interventions until D30, conversion from outpatient to inpatient, and quality of life and patient satisfaction using validated questionnaires.DiscussionThe SAMBA trial tests the hypothesis that outpatient surgery (i.e., without an overnight hospital stay) of uncomplicated acute appendicitis is a feasible and reliable procedure in establishments with a technical platform able to support this management strategy.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT05691348. Registered on 20 January 2023.

FP8.5 - QR Coded Patient Leaflets – Transforming the Sustainability of Patient Information Delivery in the Surgical Outpatient Department

Abstract Introduction Quick Response (QR) codes are becoming ubiquitous in all aspects of life, including healthcare. In outpatient clinics, the benefits of convenience, cost effectiveness and environmental sustainability of QR codes has great potential. We identified that our trust was lacking in both electronic and hardcopy patient information leaflets for Bascom’s Procedure and Endoscopic Pilonidal Sinus Treatment (EPSIT). Our aim was to create information leaflets on our trust website and link them via a QR code for easy access. Methods We audited our hardcopy information leaflets for both procedures for quality and satisfaction of information and patients were given a feedback questionnaire which specifically included a response for their preference for electronic QR code access. Results The initial feedback from 20 patients showed 85% support for QR codes. 90% found the information clear, informative and easy to understand. There was a suggestion to include diagrams in our leaflets. Conclusion We had positive feedback regarding the following: quality of information, clarity of the leaflet, and accessibility (particularly the use of QR codes). The latter reflects the younger age demographic of patients that were surveyed. We plan to prospectively audit QR coded leaflets in our outpatients. We will evaluate success through both patient and clinician feedback forms. QR coded leaflets could be implemented trust wide and even nationally, to increase sustainability in outpatients and the wider NHS, without compromising patient understanding or satisfaction.

Innovative boxing training program outperforms the traditional scapular stabilization training program in post-stroke patients

Facilitating the restoration of upper limb functionality is a key objective of stroke rehabilitation. This study aimed to compare the effects of boxing and scapular stabilization training on scapular mobility, balance angle, muscle strength, motor function, and satisfaction in hemiparetic patients. A total of sixty patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: the boxing group (BG; n = 20), the scapular stabilization group (SSG; n = 20), or the control group (CG; n = 20) which received no treatment at all. Each treatment group participated in three sessions per week for a total of eight weeks. The scapular mobility, balance angle (SBA), muscle strength, upper extremity motor functions (Manual Function Test-MFT), and treatment satisfaction were evaluated. The BG group showed greater improvements in the SBA (F = 59,951; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.682), mobility-frontal plane (F = 7998; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.222), mobility-sagittal plane (F = 91,632; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.766), and mobility-transverse plane (F = 48,713; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.635) than did the CG group. BG strengthened the serratus anterior (F = 42,227; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.601), while SSG strengthened the infraspinatus (F = 31,772; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.532) more than did CG. Compared with those in the SSG, supraspinatus (F = 52,589; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.653), upper trapezius (F = 42,890; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.605), anterior deltoideus (F = 30,844; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.524), latissimus dorsi (F = 84,345; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.751), MFTs (F = 52,363; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.652) and satisfaction (p = 0.008) were greater in the BG. Both approaches had a beneficial impact on the recovery process. However, boxing training was more effective than scapular stabilization training for several parameters. Clinical Trial Number: NCT05568173 date 5/10/2022.

Barriers and Facilitators to Shared Decision-Making for HPV Self-Sampling in LMICs: A Thematic Analysis

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in lower-middle-income countries (LMICs), contributing to the disproportionately high number of disability-adjusted life years in these regions.1,2 Shared decision-making (SDM) is a healthcare model that promotes patient-centered care by involving patients and family caregivers in collaborative treatment decision-making.3 Despite relatively high SDM awareness in high-income countries (HICs), seven studies have highlighted low awareness among healthcare professionals in LMICs, with cultural and operational barriers impeding its practice.4 The HPV-Automated Visual Evaluation (PAVE) Study is a multinational initiative focused on improving cervical cancer prevention in resource-constrained regions.5 This study aims to investigate stakeholders' understanding, views, and attitudes towards cervical cancer prevention and screening, and their preferences for receiving information and participating in decision-making.5 This will be achieved by analyzing the qualitative interviews with scientific experts and healthcare providers from the four participating sites (Brazil, El Salvador, Nigeria, and Tanzania).5 Thematic analysis is being applied to the interview transcripts to identify common themes and patterns, and enhance our understanding of stakeholder perspectives. Due to structural and cultural differences between HICs and LMICs, we expect that tailoring SDM to address specific barriers in LMICs will enhance its acceptance and utilization, leading to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction in cervical cancer prevention and treatment. If validated, the findings from the PAVE study may inform the widespread adoption and enhancement of cervical cancer prevention programs on a global scale. References Bray F, Ferlay J, Soerjomataram I, Siegel RL, Torre LA, Jemal A. Global cancer statistics 2018: GLOBOCAN estimates of incidence and mortality worldwide for 36 cancers in 185 countries [published correction appears in CA Cancer J Clin. 2020 Jul;70(4):313. doi: 10.3322/caac.21609]. CA Cancer J Clin. 2018;68(6):394-424. doi:10.3322/caac.21492 Momenimovahed, Z., Mazidimoradi, A., Maroofi, P., Allahqoli, L., Salehiniya, H., &amp; Alkatout, I. (2023). Global, regional and national burden, incidence, and mortality of cervical cancer. Cancer reports (Hoboken, N.J.), 6(3), e1756. https://doi.org/10.1002/cnr2.1756 Faiman B, Tariman JD. Shared Decision Making: Improving Patient Outcomes by Understanding the Benefits of and Barriers to Effective Communication. Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2019;23(5):540-542. doi:10.1188/19.CJON.540-542 Sam S, Sharma R, Corp N, Igwesi-Chidobe C, Babatunde OO. Shared decision making in musculoskeletal pain consultations in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review. Int Health. 2020;12(5):455-471. doi:10.1093/inthealth/ihz077 de Sanjosé S, Perkins RB, Campos NG, et al. Design of the HPV-Automated Visual Evaluation (PAVE) Study: Validating a Novel Cervical Screening Strategy. Preprint. medRxiv. 2023;2023.08.30.23294826. Published 2023 Oct 23. doi:10.1101/2023.08.30.23294826

Do integrated stroke units affect patient and family experience of care transitions?

Purpose Patients and families identify discharge from hospital as highly challenging. Less is known about experiences of transition between acute services and inpatient rehabilitation. We aimed to understand the experiences of patients and families as they transition to inpatient rehabilitation services, before and after the opening of a new integrated stroke and rehabilitation unit (ISU). Materials and methods Adults were recruited 7 days after transfer to inpatient rehabilitation, in two 6-month periods before and after the opening of the ISU. Their experiences of care continuity were evaluated with a survey. Univariate analyses compared survey data pre- and post-ISU. A subset of participants completed semi-structured interviews that underwent thematic analysis. Results 150 patients were recruited (median age 60 years, range 20-92 years, 72 female). There were no differences between pre- and post-ISU survey scores for patient or family experiences (all p > 0.3). Interview analysis identified 3 major themes: “Whānaungatanga - the foundation of patient experience”, “In the dark and out of control”, and “A nice view…but I want to be able to do more.” Conclusions Implementation of an integrated stroke and rehabilitation unit maintained levels of patient and family satisfaction. Interviews identified important themes for services planning to improve patient experience.

Long guidewire peripheral intravenous catheters in emergency departments for management of difficult intravenous access: A multicenter, pragmatic, randomized controlled trial.

A quarter of patients who present to emergency departments (EDs) have difficult intravenous access (DIVA), making it challenging for clinicians to successfully place a peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC). Some literature suggests that guidewire PIVC improves first-insertion success rate. The aim was to determine the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a novel long PIVC (5.8 cm) with a retractable coiled guidewire (GW-PIVC) for patients with DIVA, compared with standard care PIVCs. A pragmatic randomized controlled trial was conducted in two Australian EDs. Eligible participants were adults assessed as meeting DIVA criteria. Participants were randomized (1:1 ratio; stratified by hospital) to either GW-PIVC (long) or standard care group (short or long PIVC). The use of ultrasound was discretionary in the standard care group and was recommended in the GW-PIVC group due to the pragmatic design that was primarily testing the GW-PIVC rather than the ultrasound use. Primary outcome was first-insertion success and secondary outcomes included all-cause device failure, patient and staff satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness. The analysis was intention to treat. A total of 446 participants were randomized and 409 received PIVCs. The use of GW-PIVC, compared with standard PIVC, had a lower first-insertion success rate (68% vs. 77%, odds ratio [OR] 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.43-0.99, p < 0.05). There was no difference in PIVC failure (134.0 per 1000 catheter days [GW-PIVC] vs. 111.8 [standard PIVC] per 1000 catheter days, hazard ratio 1.18, 95% CI 0.72-1.95). Both participant (8/10 vs. 9/10, median difference [MD] -1.00, 95% CI -1.37 to -0.63) and clinician (8/10 vs. 10/10, MD -2.00, 95% CI -2.37 to -1.63) satisfaction was lower with GW-PIVCs compared with standard PIVCs. More nurses inserted standard PIVCs than GW-PIVCs (56.9% vs. 36.5%) and had less confidence in their ultrasound skills (28.0% vs. 46.6% self-claimed as advanced/expert users). The cost per participant of GW-PIVC insertions was 2.46 times greater than standard PIVC insertions ($AU80.24 vs. $AU32.57). GW-PIVCs had significantly lower first-insertion success and non-significantly higher all-cause catheter failure. Additional training and device design familiar to clinicians are vital factors to enhance the likelihood of successful future implementation of GW-PIVCs.

ThP1.11 - Harnessing digital consent analytics to highlight multicentre operative and consent trends in breast surgery

Abstract Introduction Paper-based consent is difficult to audit at scale, therefore hospital episode statistics data is used to provide insights into national breast surgical practice. However, as digital consent is becoming routine, analysis of amalgamated data is possible to provide a better understanding of consent practice. Methods Between 22/04/2020-29/11/23, patient anonymised digital consent data was analysed retrospectively using Concentric Health analytics (Audit ID:1123ABS). Inclusion criteria required the responsible clinician to be a breast surgeon, with non-breast surgical procedures excluded. Results n=6860 digital consent episodes were performed across 10 NHS Trusts and 4 private institutions (n=890 unique operations. n=82 unique responsible clinicians, n=191 consenting clinicians). 45.6% (n=3125/6860) of the cases were consented by consultants. 18.7% (n=1286/6860) underwent a mastectomy; 78.5% simple &amp; 21.5% reconstruction (of which 82.6% implant and 17.4% autologous reconstruction). 40.1% (n=2750/6860) underwent breast conserving surgery (79.2% WLE, 18.9% therapeutic mammoplasty, 1.9% Intercostal perforator). Re-excision of margins accounted for 16% of BCS cases (n=441/2750). SLNB was performed in 40.6% and ANC in 11.5% of all breast surgery cases. Regarding localisation; 44.5% Seed, 30.6% Wire, 21.7% palpable/other, 3.2% USS skin mark. Conclusion As well as providing benefits in terms of information sharing and improved patient satisfaction, digital consent also provides an opportunity to provide high-level data, regarding which operations are being consented to, when and by whom.

Microliposuction and Radiofrequency Combined With Fat Grating as a New Method for Hybrid-Type Nasolabial Folds

Backgrounds: The hybrid-type nasolabial fold is a special, complex type of nasolabial fold with various causes, making it difficult to obtain an ideal effect with a single treatment. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect and complications of a comprehensive therapy combining microliposuction, radiofrequency, and fat grafting on hybrid-type nasolabial folds. Results: Twenty-one patients aged 27 to 45 (mean: 34.71±5.41) years, who underwent the therapy for hybrid-type nasolabial folds were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were followed up for 12 months. Two independent observers conducted postoperative follow-ups at 1 week and 12 weeks. One week postoperatively, the hematoma, mass nodule, and skin scald ecchymosis scores were 1.24±0.43, 1.62±0.58, and 1.48±0.59, respectively. At 12 weeks, the scores of mass nodules and skin scald ecchymosis decreased (1.19±0.39 and 1.05±0.21, respectively) without obvious hematoma. The WSRS grade decreased from 4.33±0.47 to 2.19±0.39 (P&lt;0.001), and the hybrid-type nasolabial folds significantly improved. The Face-Q scale score was 20.43±2.63 points (standard score: 85.12±10.95 points). 76.19% of the patients scored more than 80 points in the subjective Face-Q evaluation. Conclusion: Microliposuction and radiofrequency combined with fat grafting effectively treats hybrid-type nasolabial folds, resulting in high patient satisfaction. Most complications can be prevented, and optimal outcomes can be obtained by comprehensive surgical methods and correct procedures, which is thus worthy of clinical promotion.

SP6.5 - The NHS's value-based funding model for organ transplantation achieves superior equity and outcomes vs global peers

Abstract Introduction Value-based practice is gaining traction as a way to control costs, improve patient satisfaction, and increase provider accountability. The rising prevalence of end-stage organ disease contrasts with limited donor organs, necessitating maximising equitable access, clinical outcomes, and appropriate cost control. We compare key kidney transplant metrics across the UK, US, and Canada. Methods Parameters analysed from the 2010–2022 national registries include: (1) Policy-components, (2) Transplant rates per million population; (3) 1-5 year survival, (4) Median waiting times, (5) Average cost per patient. Inequality was assessed using the Gini-index and concentration-curves. Results The UK NHS funded &amp;gt;1000 kidney-transplants in 2021 under standardised pricing and coordinated care. This enabled 98% one-year patient survival, 7 percentage points higher than in the US and Canada. The median kidney waiting time is 54% lower than in Canada. The UK transplantation rate per million increased by 25% over the decade, versus a 3% rise in the US and Canada. The Gini index is 0.03 in the UK, indicating highly equitable access, versus 0.11 in the US. Average transplant costs per patient are nearly 85% lower in the UK ($130,000) than in the US ($830,000). Conclusions The integrated funding and oversight model has facilitated access, survival, and sustainability gains on kidney transplantation for the UK NHS system versus lagging peer countries. Continued value optimisation remains necessary to tackle trade-offs. High-Level Structural Comparison ParameterUnited-KingdomUnited-StatesCanadaKey Payer(s)Single: NHSMedicare, Medicaid, PrivateSingle: Provincial-plansUse of Quality-MetricsYesPartialIn ProgressPricing ModelNational-TariffFragmentedProvincialRegulatory-OversightCentralizedVariableProvincial

Ultrasound assisted versus landmark based intrathecal administration of nusinersen in adults with spinal muscular atrophy disease: A randomized trial.

Nusinersen intrathecal administration can be challenging in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) adults. We aimed to determine if the ultrasound (US)-assistance reduces the number of needle attempts and needle redirections needed for intrathecal drug administration and its impact on the procedure time, the incidence of adverse events (AEs), and patient satisfaction in these patients. Fifty-eight patients aged 18 years and older scheduled for intrathecal nusinersen injection were enrolled and randomized (1:1 ratio) into Group 1 (nusinersen infusion with US-assisted technique) or Group 2 (nusinersen infusion with landmark-based technique). The number of attempts, number of redirections, periprocedural time, AEs and patient satisfaction were reported. Continuous variables were compared with the Student t-test or Wilcoxon rank sum test. Categorical variables were evaluated with the Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test in case of expected frequencies <5. The p-values <.05 were considered statistically significant. There were no statistical differences in the number of attempts, AEs, or patient satisfaction between the two groups. The number of needle redirections was significantly lower in the ultrasound group versus landmark-based group (p < .05) in both the overall group of patients and in the subgroup with difficult spines. The periprocedural time was about 40 seconds longer in US-group versus landmark-based group (p < .05). In SMA adults, US assistance reduces the number of needle redirections needed for intrathecal drug administration. These results suggest that the US assistance may be advantageous for nusinersen therapy to reduce the therapeutic burden of intrathecal infusion.

Effectiveness of Voice Therapy in Telepractice with Patients with Hyperfunctional Voice Disorder: A Pilot Study.

Background: The need for telepractice and digital treatment has increased due to issues this revision.regarding medical access and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in many countries, telepractice is rarely performed. The purpose of this pilot study was to describe the detailed process of telepractice in patients with hyperfunctional voice disorder and investigate its effects. Methods: The three subjects who were enrolled in this pilot study had hyperfunctional voice disorders. The evaluation was performed face to face. Auditory perceptual evaluation, acoustic evaluation, aerodynamic evaluation, patient self-evaluation, and interviews were conducted. Treatment was delivered by telepractice using a smartphone application. Results: In quantitative analysis of auditory perceptual evaluation, acoustic evaluation, aerodynamic evaluation, and patient self-evaluation, all subjects showed improved voice after treatment. In-depth analysis of telepractice was performed through the interview. Conclusions: Telepractice was effective in patients with voice disorders, and the patients were satisfied with this approach. In addition to this pilot study, further large-scale studies are required, but telemedicine may improve treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction in cases where medical access is limited or during outbreaks of respiratory infections like COVID-19.

Investigating the Effects of Manual Therapy and Pelvic Floor Training on Erectile Dysfunction: A Case Study

Introduction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue in men, often associated with various factors, such as obesity, diabetes, and more. This case study examines the impact of friction massage combined with pelvic floor exercises on ED in three patients, linked to prostatic adenectomy, aging, and diabetes. Case Description: Patients followed a one-month regimen of pelvic floor exercises and techniques. The technique’s progress was monitored via video calls twice a week. Exercises lasted for 10 min daily, along with a 10-min massage. We assessed improvement using the international index of erectile function 15 (IIEF15) questionnaire and erection hardness score (EHS), as well as ultrasound scans. Results: Following treatment, all three patients showed increased EHS and IIEF15 15 scores. Muscular thickness increased in the ischiocavernosus and bulbospongiosus muscles, while the cavernosal artery exhibited higher systolic velocity and lower diastolic velocity, although maximum blood flow velocity in the posterior vein decreased. Treatment had the most significant impact on the adenectomy patient, followed by the elderly patient and then the diabetic patient. Conclusion: Combining friction massage and pelvic floor exercises led to improved erection- related indicators and increased patient satisfaction.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Comprehensive Exploration of Diagnosis Experience in Saudi Women.

Background/Objectives: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. This study aimed to explore the diagnostic experiences of women with PCOS in Saudi Arabia, evaluating the timeline to diagnosis, the adequacy of information provided, and overall patient satisfaction with the healthcare process. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 1182 women diagnosed with PCOS across Saudi Arabia. The survey collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, the timeline from symptom onset to diagnosis, the number of healthcare visits required for diagnosis, and satisfaction with the information and support provided during the diagnostic process. Statistical analyses, including linear regression, were performed to identify factors influencing patient satisfaction. Results: The study found that 43.2% of participants sought medical attention within a year of symptom onset, yet significant delays in diagnosis were common, with 28.6% of women waiting six months or more after seeking medical care. Only 42.7% of women reported receiving adequate information at diagnosis, and satisfaction levels varied across different aspects of care. Key predictors of lower satisfaction included marital status and longer time since diagnosis, while quicker diagnosis and more healthcare visits before diagnosis positively influenced satisfaction. Conclusions: The findings highlight critical gaps in the diagnostic process and patient education for PCOS in Saudi Arabia. The widespread dissatisfaction with the information provided underscores the need for improved patient-centered care, comprehensive education, and standardized diagnostic protocols. Addressing these issues could enhance patient satisfaction and lead to better management of PCOS, both in Saudi Arabia and globally.

Enhancing loyalty in Islamic hospitals: Exploring customer experience as mediating variables

Purpose – This study investigates the impact of service quality and corporate image on customer experience and loyalty within health institutions.Methodology – Utilizing a correlation research design, data were collected from 80 hospital patients using a purposive sampling technique. Data were analyzed using regression analysis in SPSS version 25.Findings – The findings reveal that Service quality and corporate image significantly enhance customer experience. Moreover, while service quality directly influences loyalty, the impact of corporate image on loyalty is mediated by customer experience.Implications – The study suggests Hospitals should focus on improving service efficiency, communication, and patient satisfaction in order to strengthen patient loyalty. Additionally, cultivating a positive corporate image through patient interactions can further enhance the customer experience, leading to increased loyalty. Originality – This study introduces a novel conceptual model that integrates customer experience as a mediating variable to explain loyalty dynamics in health institutions. This study's contributions are particularly relevant for hospital management, although the relatively small sample size may limit the broader applicability of the results.

Long-term results and patient-reported outcomes after vascularized fibular graft use in the treatment of post-traumatic bone defects of femur shaft and tibia: A retrospective cohort and cross-sectional survey study

Post-traumatic critical-sized bone defects pose a reconstructive challenge for reconstructive surgeons. The vascularized fibula graft is a well-described treatment for osseous defects of the femur and tibia. This study aimed to assess long-term patient-reported quality of life, the success-, and complication rates in lower extremity reconstruction with vascularized fibula grafts. A retrospective cohort of 29 patients who underwent fibula graft reconstruction for critical-sized bone defects after post-traumatic tibial and femoral bone loss between 1990 and 2021 was included. To assess the health-related quality of life and return to work and satisfaction, a cross-sectional survey was performed using the short-form-36, lower extremity functional scale, and a self-made questionnaire including the DN4, satisfaction, and subjective ankle function. The median bone defect size was 8cm (IQR 9-7cm). The mental component scores were comparable to the Dutch population norm, whereas the impaired physical function scores were associated with pain (r 0.849, p<0.001). Neuropathic symptoms were reported in 7 out of 19 patients, and 11 out of 19 patients returned to normal daily activity. All respondents reported positive or neutral scores on overall satisfaction with the recovery. Bone healing was uneventful in 19 out of 29 patients. Union was achieved in 25 out of 29 patients. Persistent nonunion was observed in 4 patients, leading to amputation in 2 patients. Vascularized fibula graft use led to high union rates and limb salvage in patients with post-traumatic segmental bone loss of the tibia and femur. Patient satisfaction with the overall recovery was positive; however, functional outcomes remained impaired.

Urine Sample Handling in Laboratory—Process Reengineering is the Need of the Hour

Background and Aims: Monitoring and a continual improvement of turnaround time (TAT) in urine examination and reporting is essential for improved management of laboratory quality as well as ensuring patient satisfaction. TAT can be impacted by multiple factors, some of which appear to be beyond the control of laboratory, especially the preanalytical phase of urine examination such as specimen collection, transportation and sample preparation. The aim of the study was to compare the preanalytical variables like TAT for transportation and incidences of spill between our current urinalysis workflow process and the new urinalysis workflow process using a pneumatic chute-compatible closed urine collection system. Materials and Methods: This observational prospective study was conducted on 4/9/23 from 9 am to 4 pm at the laboratory of Apollo Main Hospital, Chennai. Pneumatic chute compatible closed urine collection cup was given to the patients in Group-A and normal screw cap containers which we are currently using were given to the patients in Group-B. Once the urine samples were collected in the respective containers, they were transported to the laboratory using pneumatic chutes for Group-A samples and manual carry for Group-B samples. Analysis of transportation time using the new collection method (Group-A) when compared with the current method of practice (Group-B) was done. The incidence of spillage was also monitored. Results: A significant improvement was noticed in the transportation process and spill incidence with closed collection devices through the pneumatic chute. Conclusion: To conclude, the implementation of pneumatic chute compatible closed collection tubes for urine improves the transportation and processing time, eliminates the manual carry of urine samples, eliminates the incidences of leakage and spillage, reduces errors and reduces the exposure of urine to healthcare workers, thereby leading to significant improvement in patient care, patient experience and staff satisfaction.