Patient and Caregiver Perspectives on Surgical Informed Consent for Pancreaticoduodenectomy: An Applied Thematic Analysis

Introduction Surgical informed consent (SIC) is essential for patient autonomy, but quality is often limited by time constraints, communication challenges, and patient-related factors. We sought to identify barriers and facilitators to meaningful, oncologic SIC.Methods Patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and their caregivers were interviewed, concluding at thematic saturation. Clinical characteristics were abstracted from the electronic medical record. Applied thematic analysis was used to identify barriers and facilitators of SIC.Results Participants included three patients and two caregivers; all patients were White, non-Hispanic, with a mean age of 61 ± 12 y. Participants reported high SIC satisfaction and strong recall of risks and expectations. Transparent communication, figurative language, visual aids, and social support facilitated SIC. Emotional distress and reluctance to ask questions were barriers. Limited anticipatory guidance regarding postoperative recovery was noted.Conclusions Meaningful SIC is supported by clear communication and social support. Expanding preoperative counseling may improve recovery preparedness.