Surgical management for venous leg ulcers: The role of hope, investment and agency.
A recent systematic review suggests that minimally invasive venous surgery for the treatment of leg ulcers may have a greater impact on quality of life than traditional approaches. A total of 11 participants who had previously undergone surgical management for leg ulcers took part in semi-structured interviews regarding their experiences. Using thematic analysis, three themes were identified: 'Living in Flux', 'Perceptions of Chronicity' and 'Expectations'. Surgical treatment may not only improve patients' quality of life due to treatment of the condition but also by opening up a sense of hope, investment and agency not associated with traditional treatment approaches.
University of Surrey, UK.
Philippa
P
Tollow
University of Surrey, UK.
Jane
J
Ogden
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D065026:Hope; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology*; D014647:Varicose Ulcer / Q000601:surgery*; D014656:Vascular Surgical Procedures / Q000523:psychology*
chronic illness; healthcare; illness perception; surgery; treatment