An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the patient experience of awake craniotomy: brain tumour diagnosis to discharge

Introduction. This thesis explored patient experiences of awake craniotomy. Existing literature is scarce and dominated by quantitative methodologies. More recently two qualitative studies have provided a rich, but contrasting, understanding of the patients‟ experience of awake craniotomy. The methodological weaknesses of the existing literature are addressed, and the rationale for the study justified. Objectives. The aim of the study was to explore seven participants‟ experiences of awake craniotomy using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Methods. Single-site ethical approval was gained to conduct the study in one NHS Trust. All potential participants were approached who had undergone the awake craniotomy procedure at the NHS Trust. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis framework. Results. Analysis of transcripts yielded three superordinate themes: self-preservation, operation environment and information. The superordinate themes were interpreted as interconnected with each other, as well as embedded in a core theme: relationship with the neurosurgeon. The three superordinate themes are presented and discussed within the journal article. The extended paper elaborates on two of these superordinate themes. Discussion. The relationship with the neurosurgeon appears crucial to the patients‟ experience of awake craniotomy. The relationship could impact on the participants‟ decision to have the awake craniotomy, their experience of the awake operation and their acceptance of the information given. The results are discussed with reference to previous literature. The implications and recommendations for further research are outlined