Patient perception on hand trauma management through a plastic surgery trauma clinic

ABSTRACT

Aim: We assessed patient perceptions of hand trauma management through a plastic surgery trauma clinic. We also assessed effects of educating patients about outcomes of their condition on their desire to have prompt surgery. Method: A prospective survey review was conducted at our plastic surgery trauma clinic. Patients included were those referred due to simple hand trauma. Any patients needing urgent admissions were excluded. An anonymous survey assessing patient perceptions before and after education about delay in surgery was distributed. Results: Of 100 patients, there were mixed expectations regarding trauma clinic;38% (n=38) expect an operation, 32% (n=32) expect no operation and 30% (n=30) expect either option. 90% (n=90) expect surgery within a week (50% n=50) or within a day (40% n=40);10% expect it (n=10) within a few weeks. After educating patients about no negative effects on their condition from surgical delay, 43% (n=17) fewer patients desired surgery within a day, and 8% (n=3) fewer patients desired surgery within a week. 190% (n=19) more patients were willing to have surgery within a few weeks. 79% (n=79) would rather come back at a guaranteed surgical slot than stay in hospital until a slot is available. 72% (n=72) considered knowledge about long-term outcomes associated with surgical delay to influence their decision more than anaesthetic type (12% n=12) and personal circumstances (16% n=16). Conclusions: If appropriate patients are assured that their condition will not be affected by surgical delay, fewer patients may stay in hospital with financial benefits of reduced bed occupancy and reduced covid risks.