Patient experiences of decision-making in the treatment of spinal metastases: a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In the treatment of spinal metastases the risks of surgery must be balanced against potential benefits, particularly in light of limited life-expectancy. Patient experiences and preferences regarding decision-making in this context are not well explored.

Purpose

We performed a qualitative study involving patients receiving treatment for spinal metastatic disease. We sought to understand factors that influenced decision-making around care for spinal metastases.

Study setting

Three tertiary academic medical centers.

Patient sample

We recruited patients presenting for treatment of spinal metastatic disease at one of three tertiary centers in Boston, MA.

Outcome measures

We conducted semistructured interviews using a guide that probed participants

SUBMITTER: Lape EC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7246131 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature