What is the psychological impact of major pancreatic surgery?
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the psychological impact of living with and after cancer following major pancreatic surgery. A qualitative study
IRAS ID
272498
Contact name
David Chang
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 0 days
Research summary
Pancreatic cancer is the 11th most common cancer in the UK, and about 10,000 new cancers are diagnosed every year. Most cancers are diagnosed at a late stage, after metastasis, but around 10% undergo a pancreaticoduodenectomy (or Whipple’s procedure). There is limited research focusing on the psychological impact of patients diagnosed with and living with pancreatic cancer, but unmet support needs impact negatively on patients’ quality of life. Research exploring the patient experience of living with cancer and the impact of treatment is vital in enabling the development of improved support interventions.
The aim of this qualitative study is to explore patients’ experiences of surgery and living with pancreatic cancer, as well as identifying opportunities to optimize psychological wellbeing.
Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with up to 25 patients who have had a pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic or biliary duct cancer. Participants will be asked about their experience of the diagnostic process and surgery, the impact of cancer on their life and personal identity, and sources of support. Potential participants will be identified from records of patients under the care of the hepatobiliary team at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust. Interviews will be recorded with permission, transcribed and anonymised. Transcripts will be analysed thematically using the principles of constant comparison.
The findings will be shared with healthcare professionals through open access journals and conference presentations, and with lay audiences through third sector organizations and social media. The study findings will also be used to develop future research grant applications and contribute to policy and service recommendations.
REC name
Wales REC 7
REC reference
19/WA/0321
Date of REC Opinion
13 Nov 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion