Do the Patient Expectations Affect Their Satisfaction and Functional Outcomes?: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Purpose: In this systematic review, it was aimed to systematically examine the studies that evaluate the relationship between patients’ expectations from lumbar spinal surgery and postoperative satisfaction and/or functional results. Materials and Methods: The databases, which were Pubmed, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science, were scanned using keywords in English, and ULAKBIM National Databases were scanned using keywords in Turkish between 2nd May and 15th May 2019. Of the 1250 studies, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. Results: Although some reports claim a relationship between patients’ expectations and satisfaction and functional results, there are also others emphasizing the opposite. However, patients with positive expectations of their general state of health, lower back and leg pain, activity, and recovery also had higher satisfaction levels. Most studies indicate that positive expectations are significantly related to postoperative satisfaction and functional results. Conclusion: As a result of this systematic review, it was seen that preoperative expectations were associated with postoperative satisfaction and functional results. Closing the gap between the expectations of the patients and the actual outcomes is important for improving clinical results, increasing satisfaction, and reducing patient complaints.

Keywords

• expectations
• outcome
• patient satisfaction
• spine