An Essential Infinitebook for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Preoperative Planning

Autores da FMUP

• Ricardo José Moreira Horta Oliveira

  Autor

Participantes de fora da FMUP

• Rocha I.S.C.
• Lopes P.

Unidades de investigação

• Cirurgia e Fisiologia

Abstract

Background: Over the past decade, plastic and reconstructive procedures have notably increased, driven by greater accessibility and aesthetic preferences. Despite surgeons' efforts, patient satisfaction faces challenges due to unrealistic expectations rooted in inadequate knowledge. Preoperative consultations present an opportune moment to address this issue. This study introduces a new approach for preoperative planning: the Infinitebook. Designed to enhance patients' understanding and satisfaction, it facilitates real-time procedure explanations and helps manage expectations. Methods: The Infinitebook, a versatile A5-sized notebook-like resource, aids surgeons in illustrating procedures such as abdominoplasty, liposuction, and breast reconstruction, enhancing patient understanding through real-time interaction, personalized illustrations, and sustainable practices, facilitating improved communication in plastic and reconstructive surgery. A cross-sectional study compared 2 groups: 1 using the Infinitebook-assisted explanation approach and another without. A questionnaire evaluated its impact on patients' procedural understanding level and satisfaction with the preoperative consultation. Statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics. Results: Participants (n = 46) were systematically sampled and categorized by demographics. Two groups (n = 23 each) received preoperative consultations with and without the Infinitebook. Perceptions on aspects of preoperative consultations were assessed. The Infinitebook received positive feedback, with all participants (100%) recommending it. Conclusions: This article introduces the Infinitebook, an environmentally friendly tool enhancing preoperative preparation, patient comprehension, and satisfaction in plastic and reconstructive surgery. It offers a customizable solution with potential for global implementation, with scope for further research. This study lays groundwork for future advancements in preoperative consultations and planning, promoting person-centered healthcare, and integrating new technologies. © 2024 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons.