Drivers of neurosurgeon selection among operative intracranial tumor patients

Abstract

Objective

Despite increased access to online information, little is known about what factors patients consider when selecting a neurosurgeon for intracranial tumor resection. This study aims to identify patient priorities in neurosurgeon selection.

Methods

Patients who underwent intracranial tumor resection between January 1, 2023, and January 31, 2024, at a single institution were surveyed. They ranked 13 factors on a 5-point Likert scale. Survey data were analyzed alongside demographic and clinical information using ordinal logistic regression.

Results

Fifty patients (mean age 54.15 ± 13.82; 54 % female; 70 % white; 70 % privately insured) completed the survey. Surgeon caseload and procedure-specific experience (mean score 4.64 ± 0.72) were rated as most important, followed by hospital ranking (4.48 ± 0.68), years of experience (4.38 ± 0.75), and surgeon interpersonal skills (4.2 ± 1.14). Least important were social media presence, age, and word of mouth.

Subgroup analysis revealed that non-Caucasian patients valued word of mouth more (OR: 1.65), while patients undergoing repeat surgery valued it less (OR: 0.33). Older patients, non-Caucasians, ethnic minorities, and married individuals placed less importance on medical school prestige.

Conclusion

Neurosurgical patients prioritize surgeon experience, hospital reputation, and interpersonal qualities. These insights can inform provider transparency, resource allocation, and outreach to underserved groups.