Patients who have undergone total gastrectomy investigation of self-management experiences on dumping syndrome

Abstract

Introduction

This study was planned to investigate in-depth patients' experiences with dumping syndrome after total gastrectomy and their self-management in this condition.

Method

The research was conducted in a qualitative study design. Data were collected using a face-to-face interview method with patients who underwent total gastrectomy surgery in 2023, using a voice recorder when they came to their outpatient clinic appointments. The interviews were completed in 20–40 ​min. The MAXQDA program was used to analyze the data obtained. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) was used as a guide for reporting this study.

Results

The study included ten patients who underwent total gastrectomy surgery. The mean age of the patients was 45 years and above. 70% of the patients were male and 30% were female. During the interview with the patients, six main themes and twenty-five sub-themes were formed: 1- Regret about the surgery, 2- Dietary recommendations, 3-Time of complaints, 4- Dietary pattern, 5- What was done for postprandial complaints, 6- Complaints after eating.

Conclusion

It is thought that an integrated team-based approach to postoperative care is necessary for patients to gain self-management skills.