Men’s perceptions of the impact of the physical consequences of a radical prostatectomy on their quality of life: a qualitative systematic review (invited plenary)

A qualitative systematic review was carried out to identify men's perceptions of the impact of the physical consequences of a radicalized prostatectomy on their quality of life (QOL). The review included men of all ages and nationalities who had radicalized prostatectomy as treatment for all stages of prostate cancer. Inclusion criteria were studies that investigated the physical consequences of radicalized prostatectomy and its impact on QOL and life experience as identified by the men and the psychosocial implications of the identified physical consequences of radicalized prostatectomy as identified by the men. A search across six databases aimed to find English language studies (November 2017). Critical appraisal was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal instrument for qualitative studies. Nineteen qualitative studies were included and the findings are presented as five aggregated qualitative syntheses. Urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are significant side-effects of radicalized prostatectomy that have a negative impact on men's QOL for which they feel ill prepared. Men are often reluctant to discuss their emotions and therefore the need to create suitable opportunities for them to express their feelings in conjunction with appropriate evidence-based emotional support and advice is pivotal to the development of support interventions. This review highlights the importance of men being made aware of the impact the physical effects that radicalized prostatectomy can have on their QOL and that those who select radicalized prostatectomy as a treatment strategy must be provided with appropriate information and support from healthcare professionals