The Use of Multimedia as an Adjunct to the Informed Consent Process for Morton's Neuroma Resection Surgery. (October 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Calvin; Ammon, Peter; Beischer, Andrew D.
• Is Part Of: Foot & ankle international. Volume 35:Number 10(2014:Oct.)
• Page Start: 1037
• Page End: 1044
• Publication Date: 2014-10
• Subjects: Morton's neuroma -- surgery -- multimedia -- patient education -- informed consent; Foot -- Abnormalities -- Periodicals; Ankle -- Abnormalities -- Periodicals; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; 617.585
• DOI: 10.1177/1071100714543644
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1071-1007

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess if a computer-based multimedia education module (MEM) improved patients' comprehension when used as an adjunct to the standard verbal consent process for Morton's neuroma resection surgery. Methods: Nineteen patients (15 females and 4 males) considered candidates for Morton's neuroma resection surgery were prospectively recruited. A standardized verbal discussion was had with each patient regarding risks and benefits of surgery, alternative treatments, and the usual postoperative course. Patient understanding was then assessed with a questionnaire. Each patient subsequently viewed the MEM and the questionnaire was repeated. Patients also rated ease of understanding and satisfaction with both methods of patient education. Results: Patients answered a significantly greater proportion of correct answers after viewing the MEM module (85%), compared to verbal discussion alone (61%) ( P = .002). Patients rated both the ease of understanding of the module and amount of information provided by the module as a mean of 9.3 cm on a 10 cm Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The majority of patients (76%) rated the multimedia tool as having answered their questions about surgery as well or better than the treating surgeon. Conclusion: An interactive multimedia educational tool was a useful adjunct to the informed consent process for patients considering Morton's neuroma resection surgery. Levels of Evidence: Level II, prospective cohort study.