scholarly journals Patient Satisfaction and Quality of Life in DIEAP Flap versus Implant Breast Reconstruction

2015 ◽  
Vol 2015 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rossella Sgarzani ◽  
Luca Negosanti ◽  
Paolo Giovanni Morselli ◽  
Veronica Vietti Michelina ◽  
Luigi Maria Lapalorcia ◽  
...  

The psychological impact of breast reconstruction has widely been described, and multiple studies show that reconstruction improves the well-being and quality of life of patients. In breast reconstruction, the goal is not only the morphological result, but mainly the patient’s perception of it. The objective of our study is to compare the physical and psychosocial well-being and satisfaction concerning the body image of patients who had reconstruction with breast implants to those of patients who had reconstruction with deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps. Our results demonstrated a similar quality of life between the two groups, but the satisfaction level was significantly higher in patients who had reconstruction with autologous tissue. Feedback from patients who have already received breast reconstruction may be useful in the decision-making process for future patients and plastic surgeons, enabling both to choose the reconstructive technique with the best long-term satisfaction.

2020 ◽  
Vol 66 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Marta Stanisz ◽  
Ewelina Kolak ◽  
Dorota Branecka-Woźniak ◽  
Renata Robaszkiewicz-Boukaz ◽  
Przemysław Ciepiela ◽  
...  

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women, and is usually treated surgically. Mastectomy has a great influence on the mental and physical condition of women. Breast reconstruction offers them a chance to improve their quality of life (QOL) and self-image.The main aim of the study was to gain knowledge about the impact of breast reconstruction on the QOL of women following mastectomy, and an analysis of the QOL after breast reconstruction, in the context of prosthesis effect assessment.Materials and methods: The study comprised 100 women following breast reconstructive surgery involved in 1 of the 7 “Amazon Clubs” (post-mastectomy women’s associations) in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, northwest Poland. The study was based on the author’s questionnaire, and a shortened standardized version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire. Statistical calculations were performed with StatSoft Statistica v10 software, adopting a significance level of p < 0.05.Results: The women who decided to have breast reconstruction surgery, noticed improved well-being (67%) and experiencedan increase in self-confidence (61%). The vast majority ofthe patients surveyed (93%) were satisfied with the effectof the prosthesis. Statistically significant differences in QOL were observed in the following spheres: rest and sleep, work capacity, negative feelings, and financial resources (p < 0.05) in relation to the evaluation of the prosthesis effect.Conclusions: 1. Breast reconstruction has a positive influence on improvements in well-being, increasing self-esteem, and the assessment of a more attractive appearance in women of all ages. 2. Breast reconstruction surgery has a positive impact on QOL and health in the physical, psychological, and environmental domains, especially in the women who are satisfied with the effects of the surgery. 3. A negative assessment of the breast reconstruction effect has an adverse influence on QOL. Identifying the factors affecting dissatisfaction with the post-operative outcome is crucial for a complete understanding of the subject, and for implementing measures aimed at improving the QOL of these women.Keywords: quality of life; mastectomy; breast cancer; breast reconstruction; breast surgery.


Nutrients ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (12) ◽  
pp. 4337
Author(s):  
Neri Maria Cristina ◽  
d’Alba Lucia

Nutritional well-being is a fundamental aspect for the health, autonomy and, therefore, the quality of life of all people, but especially of the elderly. It is estimated that at least half of non-institutionalized elderly people need nutritional intervention to improve their health and that 85% have one or more chronic diseases that could improve with correct nutrition. Although prevalence estimates are highly variable, depending on the population considered and the tool used for its assessment, malnutrition in the elderly has been reported up to 50%. Older patients are particularly at risk of malnutrition, due to multiple etiopathogenetic factors which can lead to a reduction or utilization in the intake of nutrients, a progressive loss of functional autonomy with dependence on food, and psychological problems related to economic or social isolation, e.g., linked to poverty or loneliness. Changes in the aging gut involve the mechanical disintegration of food, gastrointestinal motor function, food transit, intestinal wall function, and chemical digestion of food. These alterations progressively lead to the reduced ability to supply the body with adequate levels of nutrients, with the consequent development of malnutrition. Furthermore, studies have shown that the quality of life is impaired both in gastrointestinal diseases, but especially in malnutrition. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of malnutrition in elderly people is necessary to promote the knowledge of age-related changes in appetite, food intake, homeostasis, and body composition in order to better develop effective prevention and intervention strategies to achieve healthy aging.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S751-S752
Author(s):  
Debra J Sheets ◽  
Theresa A Allison

Abstract This interdisciplinary symposium focuses on the Voices in Motion (ViM) choir, a novel social intervention to address issues of stigma and social isolation among older adults with dementia and their caregivers. ViM is an intergenerational choir for community-dwelling older adults with dementia (PwD) and their caregivers. Local high school students participated in the choir and added to the lively social interactions. Two professionally directed ViM choirs were fully implemented in 2018-2019 with a public performance in the Fall and Spring seasons. This symposium brings together multiple methodologies to investigate the effects of choir participation on cognition, social connections, stigma, and quality of life for the dyads. Results in the individual papers demonstrate the positive impact of choir participation on dyads (n=26) for measures that includecognition (MacDonald), well-being and quality of life (Sheets), and social connections (Smith). Taken as a whole, the papers indicate that this social intervention offers an effective non- pharmacological alternative approach for older adults with dementia. Choir participation has important and significant impacts on psycho-social well-being and quality of life. The body of evidence presented points to the importance of intergenerational programs that are dementia-friendly and that support meaningful participation by older adults with dementia in the broader community. Discussion focuses on implications for social policy with attention on the replication and sustainability of the program.


2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 99-106
Author(s):  
Olya Scannell ◽  
Valerie O’Neill ◽  
Mary Dunne ◽  
Caroline Baily ◽  
Amira Salih ◽  
...  

Background: Uveal melanoma and its treatment can influence the physical and psychological well-being of patients in a way that differs from other cancers. Factors influencing quality of life (QOL) include visual impairment, changes in appearance, day-to-day functioning, ocular discomfort, and worry regarding disease recurrence. Objective: We aimed to study both general and disease-specific QOL in uveal melanoma patients in Ireland and compare QOL between a plaque radiotherapy group and an enucleation treatment group. This information was sought to enhance our understanding of QOL issues for uveal melanoma patients, in the context of improving care and providing appropriate psychosocial support. Method: The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QOL questionnaires QLQ-C30 and QLQ-OPT30 were completed by patients with uveal melanoma treated by enucleation or brachytherapy. Results: 138 of 206 patients completed the questionnaires. There was no significant difference in QOL scores between treatment groups. Thirty-two percent of patients reported concerns about tumour recurrence elsewhere in the body. The brachytherapy group had a significantly higher “role functioning” score (p = 0.030). Enucleation patients were more likely to have problems with appearance (p < 0.0005). Younger patients (12–54 years of age) were more likely to report headaches (p < 0.0005) and problems with reading (p = 0.042), and they had a lower cognitive functioning score (p = 0.003) than those aged ≥55 years. Conclusions: There was no significant difference in reported QOL between treatment groups. Our data identified a number of vulnerable patient subgroups. By anticipating which patients are more likely to suffer in terms of certain aspects of their QOL, we are better able to provide appropriate and timely psychosocial support.


2021 ◽  
Vol 162 (27) ◽  
pp. 1089-1098
Author(s):  
Zsolt Szakály ◽  
József Bognár ◽  
Zoltán Tánczos ◽  
Csaba András Dézsi

Összefoglaló. Bevezetés: A szociális szférában dolgozók túlterheltsége jelentős, és munkakörülményeik többnyire kedvezőtlenek. Bizonyított, hogy az életcélok meghatározzák a karrier, az egészségtudatosság és az életminőség területeit, de ez utóbbi a szociális dolgozók mintáján még nem került bizonyításra. Célkitűzés: A kutatás célja, hogy bemutassa egy szociális és egészségügyi szolgáltatóintézmény női dolgozóinak (n = 127) tápláltsági és fittségi állapotát és életminőségét, valamint az életcélok meghatározó szerepét ezekre a mutatókra. Módszer: Kérdőív, teszt, testösszetétel-vizsgálat és fittségiállapot-felmérés segítségével gyűjtöttünk adatokat, amelyeket különbözőségvizsgálattal és regresszióelemzéssel elemeztünk. Eredmények: A minta tápláltsági mutatója túlsúlyra utal, míg a fittségi állapot, az életminőség és az életcélok még elfogadható tartományban vannak, de a szélsőértékek jelentősek. A magasabb életcélokkal rendelkezők jobb fittségi mutatókkal és életminőséggel jellemezhetők. Az ülőmunkát és a fizikai munkát végzők között minimális különbség volt kimutatható a tápláltsági mutatók, a fittség és az életminőség tekintetében. A táppénzt igénybe vevők gyengébb fittségi és életminőség-mutatókkal rendelkeznek, mint akik nem voltak betegszabadságon. Az életkor előrehaladtával romló testösszetételt és fittségi állapotot detektáltunk. Következtetés: A korábbi kutatási eredményeket megerősíthetjük abban, hogy a szociális dolgozók tápláltsági és fittségi mutatói, valamint életminőségszintje nem optimális. Az életcélok meghatározó szerepe a vizsgált területek számottevő részében bizonyítást nyert. A dolgozói életcélok megerősítésének egyik fontos színtere a munkahely, ahol számos pozitív hatás érhető el a testi-lelki egészség, a jóllét és a munkateljesítmény területein is. Orv Heti. 2021; 162(27): 1089–1098. Summary. Introduction: Professionals working in the social sector typically do significant overwork in rather unfavourable working conditions. Although the purpose in life is proved to determine the areas of career, health awareness, and the quality of life, the latter has not yet been confirmed among social workers. Objective: The purpose of this research is to demonstrate body composition and fitness status as well as the quality of life of female employees (n = 127) at a social institution, furthermore the decisive role purpose of life plays in these indicators. Method: Data were collected through questionnaires, tests, body composition analyses, and fitness status tests, and were assessed by t-test, analysis of variance and regression analysis. Results: Body composition of the participants indicates a generally overweight status, while fitness status, quality of life, and purpose of life are within the acceptable range, however, all with notable range values. Those with a higher-level purpose of life demonstrate better fitness indicators and higher quality of life. In terms of body composition, fitness, and quality of life, only a minor difference was found between those who do intellectual and physical type of work. Those who took sick leave demonstrated a lower level of fitness and quality of life compared to those who did not take any sick leave. Body composition and fitness status have proven to deteriorate with age. Conclusion: Previous research findings can be confirmed by stating that neither the body composition and fitness indicators, nor the quality-of-life level of social workers are optimal. The determining role of purpose in life has been proven in substantial aspects in this study. One of the focus areas of enhancing purpose in life is the workplace, where major positive impacts can be achieved in terms of the physical and mental health, well-being, and work performance. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(27): 1089–1098.


Author(s):  
Heather C. Guidone

Abstract Embedded in the centuries-old assertion that the womb was a nomadic entity wandering about the body causing hysteria and distress, persistent menstrual misinformation and misconceptions remain prevalent wherein pain disorders like endometriosis are concerned. Affecting an estimated 176 million individuals worldwide, endometriosis is a major cause of non-menstrual pain, dyspareunia, painful menses and reduced quality of life among individuals of all races and socioeconomic backgrounds. Wide-ranging symptoms may be dismissed as routine by both patients and practitioners alike due to lack of disease literacy, and lengthy diagnostic delays can exacerbate the negative impact of endometriosis on the physical, psychological, emotional and social well-being of those affected. This chapter identifies some of these challenges and explores how obstacles to best practice can be reduced in part through adoption of early educational campaigns which incorporate endometriosis as a major component of menstrual health education.


2014 ◽  
Vol 12 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Wan Nurul Mardiah Wan Mohd Rani

Local services and facilities in residential neighbourhoods play an important role towards the social sustainability of local residents. It is believed that having good provision and access to these local services and facilities would contribute significantly to the quality of life and residents’ well-being. The form of the neighbourhood influences the way people live in the neighbourhood. The way people settle in neighbourhood’s shapes the quality of life, the richness of the local economy, the level of social cohesion, the level of safety and the amount and the kind of human activities in public spaces. Different urban forms can have very different degrees of sustainability. Density is one of the urban form elements that have been research numerous times and proven to have an influence on the neighbourhood sustainability. Density is the most easily measured urban form element either at a macro level (city) or micro level (neighbourhood). This research discusses the impact of density on the micro scale through estimating its influence on access to local facilities. Through the use of household survey and supported by observation survey, this study findings on the impact of density on access and use of local facilities. The study concludes with establishing the findings of the survey to reflect and fit into the body of knowledge and how it would improve the guidelines and policy on social sustainability in improving the urban living as a whole.


Mastology ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 30 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aline Fernanda Fontinele Murici ◽  
Ângela Ferreira Barros

Objective: To evaluate which stage of breast reconstruction promotes improved quality of life for women treated for breast cancer, and to verify the socioeconomic and clinical factors associated with better quality of life. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 70 women treated for breast cancer in the perioperative period of late breast reconstruction in the Federal District. To assess quality of life, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy — Breast (FACT-B) instrument was used. Results: Half of the women were under 50 years old. Tumor removal surgery had occurred on average 5.4 years ago. Women with axillary dissection had greater impairment in the physical well-being domain (p=0.001) and the breast cancer subscale (p=0.016). Among women who had undergone surgery more than one year previously, there were higher domains of emotional (p=0.006) and functional (p=0.003) well-being. Women who underwent breast reconstruction had higher values in the social/family well-being (p<0.001), emotional well-being (p=0.001), functional well-being (p=0.001), and breast cancer subscale (p=0.005) domains; and on the FACT-B score (p<0.001), right after the first stage. Conclusions: Breast reconstruction favored better quality of life from the first stage, suggesting that this therapeutic modality should be offered promptly, whenever possible, and guaranteed for all women treated for breast cancer.


2015 ◽  
Vol 8 (7) ◽  
pp. 110 ◽  
Author(s):  
Somaye Ansari Moghadam ◽  
Zohre Abdollahi ◽  
Sirous Risbaf Fakour ◽  
Alireza Ansari Moghaddam ◽  
Farin Kiany ◽  
...  

<p><strong>BACKGROUND:</strong> Periodontal diseases, such as periodontitis, are considered the main cause of tooth loss in the elderly.The present study is aimed to determine the relationship between periodontal condition and quality of life. Quality of life consists of a range of people’s objective needs related to the self-perception of well-being.</p><p><strong>METHODS:</strong> This study was done from January 2014 to June 2015 in a healthcare clinic in Zahedan, southeast Iran. Using the random sampling method, the researchers enrolled 700 individuals over 35 years of age. The participants initially completed a demographic questionnaire consisting of data, such as age, sex, educational level, and smoking habit. Then, the periodontal chart was completed. Moreover, patients, based on the number of their natural teeth, were divided into two groups (≥10 teeth in both maxillary and mandible arches and &lt;10 teeth in at least one arch). The body mass index (BMI) was also measured.To assess the participants’ general health, the WHO’s quality of life questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) was used.</p><p><strong>RESULTS: </strong>Of the 700 enrolled individuals, 53.3% were womenand 47.7% were men. Moreover, most of the participants (63.71%) had BMI of less than 25 and 68% did not smoke.We found that as the people’s periodontal status deteriorated, their quality of life also declined and the total mean score in all four health domains decreased (P&lt;0.001)<strong>.</strong>Moreover, people with more than 10 teeth in both arches scored higher with respect to life quality than those with less than 10 teeth in at least one arch (P&lt;0.001).</p><p><strong>CONCLUSION: </strong>This studyindicates a decrease in the general quality of life in patients with periodontal disease.The authors suggest performing studies with larger sample sizes andcohort studies for more reliable results.</p>


2019 ◽  
Vol 35 (06) ◽  
pp. 445-451 ◽  
Author(s):  
George N. Kamel ◽  
David Nash ◽  
Joshua Jacobson ◽  
Robin Berk ◽  
Karan Mehta ◽  
...  

Background Delayed immediate (DI) autologous breast reconstruction consists of immediate postmastectomy tissue expander placement, radiation therapy, and subsequent autologous reconstruction. The decision between timing of reconstructive methods is challenging and remains to be elucidated. We aim to compare patient reported outcomes and quality of life between delayed and DI reconstruction. Methods A retrospective review of all patients, who underwent autologous breast reconstruction at Montefiore Medical Center from January 2009 to December 2016, was conducted. Patients who underwent postmastectomy radiotherapy were divided into two cohorts: delayed and DI autologous breast reconstruction. Patients were mailed a BREAST-Q survey and their responses, demographic information, complications, and need for revisionary procedures were analyzed. Results A total of 79 patients met inclusion criteria: 34.2% (n = 27) in the delayed and 65.8% (n = 52) in the DI group. 77.2% (n = 61) of patients were a minority population. Patients in each cohort had similar baseline characteristics; however, the DI cohort was more likely to have bilateral reconstruction (46.2% [n = 24] vs. 7.4% [n = 2]; p = 0.0005) and to have major mastectomy flap necrosis (22.4% [n = 17] vs. 0.0% [n = 0]; p = 0.002). Premature tissue expander removal occurred in 17.3% (n = 9) of patients in the DI group. BREAST-Q response rates were 44.4% (n = 12) in the delayed group and 57.7% (n = 30) in the DI group. Responses showed similar satisfaction with their breasts, well-being, and overall outcome. Conclusion Delayed and DI autologous breast reconstruction yield similar patient-reported satisfaction; however, patients undergoing DI reconstruction have higher rates of major mastectomy necrosis. Furthermore, patients in the DI group risk premature tissue expander removal.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document