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Predictors of satisfaction and quality of life following post‐mastectomy breast reconstruction
Author(s) -
Matthews Hannah,
Carroll Natalie,
Renshaw Derek,
Turner Andrew,
Park Alan,
Skillman Jo,
McCarthy Kate,
Grunfeld Elizabeth A.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
psycho‐oncology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.41
H-Index - 137
eISSN - 1099-1611
pISSN - 1057-9249
DOI - 10.1002/pon.4397
Subject(s) - breast reconstruction , psychosocial , patient satisfaction , quality of life (healthcare) , mastectomy , medicine , breast cancer , life satisfaction , surgery , psychology , psychiatry , cancer , nursing , psychotherapist
Objective Breast reconstruction is associated with multiple psychological benefits. However, few studies have identified clinical and psychological factors associated with improved satisfaction and quality of life. This study examined factors, which predict satisfaction with breast appearance, outcome satisfaction and quality of life following post‐mastectomy breast reconstruction. Methods Women who underwent post‐mastectomy breast reconstruction between 2010 and 2016 received a postal questionnaire consisting of The BREAST‐Q Patient Reported Outcomes Instrument, The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ‐30 Questionnaire, The Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, and a series of Visual‐Analogue Scales. One hundredforty‐eight women completed the questionnaire, a 56% response rate. Results Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed psychosocial factors accounted for 75% of the variance in breast satisfaction, 68% for outcome satisfaction, and 46% forquality of life. Psychosocial well‐being emerged as a significant predictor of satisfaction with breast appearance (β = .322) and outcome satisfaction (β = .406). Deep inferior epigastric perforator flap patients reported greater satisfaction with breast appearance (β = .120) and outcome satisfaction (β = .167). Conclusions This study extends beyond the limited research by distinguishing between satisfaction with breast appearance and outcome satisfaction. The study provides evidence for the role of psychosocial factors predicting key patient reported outcomes and demonstrates the importance of psychosocial well‐being and reconstruction type. The findings also highlight the need for healthcare providers to consider the psychosocial well‐being of patients both preoperatively and post operatively and provide preliminary evidence for the use of deep inferior epigastric perforator reconstructions over other types of reconstructive procedures.