Men's experiences following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: a qualitative descriptive study.
BACKGROUND
Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is a less invasive surgical option to the open retropubic approach for prostate cancer that will likely grow in popularity commensurate with availability. However, since little is known about what men experience throughout the postoperative period, our ability to ensure informed decision-making remains compromised.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to explore what men experience following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and how adequately their pre- and postoperative needs are being met.


METHODS
This was a qualitative descriptive study.


METHODS
Nineteen men, aged 46-76, who had undergone laparoscopic radical prostatectomy within the previous 3-6 months period were recruited from the treatment and control arms of a randomized controlled trial. Men who were not in the trial were recruited via letters mailed from surgeons' offices.


METHODS
Data were generated during loosely structured individual (n=5) and focus group interviews (n=3). Inductive content analysis helped to ensure that participants' perspectives were accurately represented.


RESULTS
Men had actively sought information prior to surgery but seemed unprepared for the intensity of discomfort and incontinence they experienced. They particularly valued opportunities for informal discussion with former prostatectomy patients; however, erectile dysfunction remained a major concern and most did not know where to turn for help.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses could play a pivotal role in the laparoscopic radical prostatectomy experience by ensuring men are well informed both pre- and postoperatively. Facilitating contact with other men who have undergone laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) and initiating conversation about potential side-effects such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction would be an important starting point. Particularly in light of early discharge and concerns regarding erectile dysfunction, additional follow-up seems warranted.
Milne
Jill L
JL
Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta., Canada. jill.milne@shaw.com
Spiers
Judith A
JA
Moore
Katherine N
KN
D000359:Aftercare; D000368:Aged; D000416:Alberta; D001294:Attitude to Health; D007172:Erectile Dysfunction / Q000209:etiology; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology*; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D008571:Men / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*; D024802:Nurse's Role; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010351:Patient Discharge; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D019990:Perioperative Care / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology; D011468:Prostatectomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology*; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011788:Quality of Life; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014549:Urinary Incontinence / Q000209:etiology