Patient's opinion about written information before laparoscopy: a consecutive series of 100 cases.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to assess the opinion of the surgical patient concerning written information before laparoscopic operations.


METHODS
A prospective and consecutive series of 100 patients was studied. Information sheets concerning the planned laparoscopic operation were distributed at preoperative consultation. A short and clear questionnaire regarding this information was answered upon hospitalization.


RESULTS
The majority of the 87 patients, who had read the information, were very pleased to be informed about the techniques (91%) and the risks (97%), although a significant group was worried by the explanations of the risks (41%). None of the patients cancelled the planned operation. None of the patients had become less confident in the surgeon. Most of the patients (95%) found this system of informed consent necessary.


CONCLUSIONS
Surgeons should no longer be reluctant to distribute standardized information sheets, as a majority of patients find this system of information necessary.
Wijtenburg
E
E
Department of General and Digestive Surgery, Hôpital Saint Joseph, Gilly.
Navez
B
B
Cambier
E
E
Guiot
P
P
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent; D010535:Laparoscopy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010361:Patients / Q000523:psychology*; D011446:Prospective Studies