Article

PURPOSE: To explore how the process of undergoing and recovering from knee
replacement surgery alters patients' experiences and use of their support
networks. METHODS: Ten patients having knee replacement surgery for
osteoarthritis were invited to take part in in-depth interviews prior to surgery
and 2-4 weeks, 6 and 12 months post-operatively. Transcripts were analyzed using
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. RESULTS:
Three superordinate themes
were identified: (1) relationships with health professionals over the knee
replacement journey; (2) implications for informal relationships and support
networks and (3) providing support to others. CONCLUSIONS: Transformation from a
person with osteoarthritis to someone recovering from a surgical intervention can
lead to alterations in the source, type and level of support people receive from
others, and can also change the assistance that they themselves are able to
offer. Findings highlight the value of the concept of interdependence to our
understanding of participants' experiences. Activity undertaken by informal
support networks assists participants to cope with the consequences of
osteoarthritis and surgery, and fills in the gap when more formal support is
lacking. However, it is essential that provision of care is individually tailored
and that formal support is adequate at times when informal support networks are
unavailable. Implications for Rehabilitation Activity undertaken by informal
support networks can help patients who undergo knee replacement cope with the
consequences of their operation; filling the void when support from health
professionals is lacking. Contact with health professionals after surgery
enhances confidence and offers reassurance; helping to facilitate the recovery
process from knee replacement. Findings highlight, from patients' own
perspectives, the potential value of post-operative physiotherapy received soon
after surgery and the possible role of long-term follow up. Missing or ill-timed
support from health professionals can have negative psychosocial consequences for
patients going through joint replacement.

Langue : ANGLAIS