Does a New Information Structure about Cosmetic Outcome of Breast-Conserving Treatment Result in a Better Informed Patient? Outcome of a Comparative Case Study

Abstract

Background: To investigate whether the implementation of additional modern information tools about cosmetic outcome of breast-conserving treatment (BCT) could improve patient satisfaction. Methods: A comparative case study compared data of two cross-sectional studies. The historical group (HG) was treated in 2013, the implementation group (IG) in 2016. The HG received a questionnaire, which resulted in implementation of the following items in our practice, expansion of the BCT brochure and photo book, incorporation of the Harvard and Numeric Rating scale. The IG received the same questionnaire, with the addition of nine more questions concerning specific implementation aspects. Results: The HG contained 76 patients (age 41-86), versus 57 in the IG (age 40-84). Although additional information tools were implemented, no significant enhancement of IG patient satisfaction could be demonstrated. Nevertheless, the need for information appeared significantly greater (p < 0.001) in the IG. Conclusion: The need for information about cosmesis was greater in the IG, possibly due to increased attention paid by professionals. Furthermore, it is difficult to improve an information program concerning cosmetic consequences of BCT, despite the implementation of better tools. Professionals should focus on individual cosmetic outcome information during the entire treatment and follow up process of BCT.