A thematic analysis of experiences of varicose veins and minimally invasive surgery under local anaesthesia

Abstract

Aims and objectives: To gain insight into the experience of living with varicose veins and undergoing minimally invasive surgery under local anaesthesia in a private clinic. Background: Minimally invasive surgery under local anaesthesia is replacing traditional surgical stripping for the treatment for varicose veins. Conscious surgery has previously been associated with elevated levels of anxiety and some associated pain. There is limited research exploring the experiences of patients undergoing varicose vein surgery under local anaesthesia. Design: Qualitative semi-structured interviews with 20 patients who took part in a mixed methods study exploring the effects of distraction on intra-operative pain and anxiety. Methods: Participants were interviewed eight weeks post surgery about their experiences before, during and after surgery. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Four themes were captured (1) negative emotions associated with symptoms, (2) unpreparedness for the surgical process, (3) feeling cared for and (4) improvements in well-being. An overarching theme of relationships was identified. Overall, varicose veins had a detrimental impact on quality of life prior to surgery. Patients felt unprepared for their procedure and experienced the operation as anxiety provoking and uncomfortable. This was much helped by the support of nursing staff in the theatre. Post surgery, patients' quality of life was reported as improved. Conclusions: More emphasis needs to be placed on preparing patients for surgery under local anaesthesia. The role of the nurse is central to creating a caring, relaxed environment which could improve patient experience. Relevance to clinical practice: Patients' experiences of varicose veins and their treatment both influence, and are influenced by relationships with others at all stages of the management process. Nurses play an important role in improving patient experience during surgery and care needs to be taken to ensure that patients understand and accept the processes of surgery and recovery.