Patient lumbar discectomy journey (DiscJourn) in the UK: a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To gain insight into patients' views, perceptions, experiences and expectations postlumbar discectomy.

Methods

A qualitative study using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) purposively recruited patients undergoing lumbar discectomy at one UK spinal centre. Purposive criteria included age, sex, ethnicity, symptom duration, work/sick leave, education level and co-existing psychological issues. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using a patient co-constructed topic guide. Interview transcriptions were analysed in accordance with IPA. Strategies enhancing trustworthiness included suspension of judgements and presuppositions, reflexivity, iterative coding process and critique from co-investigators.

Results

Data from 14 participants (eight elec

SUBMITTER: White L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12306316 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature