Exploring the experiences and perceptions of patients awaiting rotator cuff repair surgery: An integrated qualitative study within the POWER pilot and feasibility trial.

Moffatt, Maria ORCID: 0000-0002-8385-7418, Wade, Julia, Foster, Nadine E ORCID: 0000-0003-4429-9756 and Littlewood, Chris ORCID: 0000-0002-7703-727X (2024) Exploring the experiences and perceptions of patients awaiting rotator cuff repair surgery: An integrated qualitative study within the POWER pilot and feasibility trial. Musculoskeletal science & practice, 69. 102893-. ISSN 2468-8630, 2468-7812

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msksp.2023.102893

Abstract

<h4>Background</h4>As waiting times for orthopaedic surgery increase, there have been calls to move from 'waiting lists' to 'preparation lists', to better prepare patients for surgery. In this context, a pilot randomised controlled trial (POWER) was conducted, comparing physiotherapist-led exercise to waiting-list control (usual care), for patients awaiting rotator cuff repair surgery. This qualitative study was integrated within the pilot trial.<h4>Objectives</h4>Explore the experiences of adults awaiting rotator cuff repair surgery in the NHS. Explore the acceptability of the physiotherapist-led exercise intervention. Explore the barriers and enablers to recruitment, retention, and adherence.<h4>Design</h4>Integrated qualitative study with semi-structured telephone interviews.<h4>Methods</h4>Adults awaiting rotator cuff repair, consenting to participate in the trial were eligible. Sampling was purposive regarding age, gender, randomised allocation, and hospital site. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis.<h4>Results</h4>20 participants were recruited (age range 49-81 years; 12 male, 10 randomised to physiotherapist-led exercise). Many participants were unable to recall their experiences of trial processes; nonetheless, three themes were identified from the data: experience of shoulder pain and pathway to treatment; communication and decision-making in the context of rotator cuff repair surgery; and experiences of the POWER physiotherapist-led exercise intervention and processes.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Patients experience significant burden due to shoulder pain. Their journey to surgery can be long, confusing, and associated with perceived abandonment. In a future trial, the intervention should offer opportunity for shared decision-making, optional exit from the surgical pathway, and an individualised exercise programme.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Rotator Cuff, Humans, Shoulder Pain, Exercise, Exercise Therapy, Feasibility Studies, Adult, Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Middle Aged, Male
Divisions:	Faculty of Health and Life Sciences Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Population Health Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Population Health > School of Health Sciences
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	21 May 2024 09:37
Last Modified:	06 Dec 2024 14:17
DOI:	10.1016/j.msksp.2023.102893
Open Access URL:	https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msksp.2023.102893
Related URLs:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3181800