Understanding child anxiety before otoplasty: A qualitative study

Background: Pre-operative anxiety in pediatric patients is a major concern in surgical care due to the future medical and behavioral consequences that can occur. The objective of this study was to understand the factors that lead to pre-operative anxiety before otoplasty. Methods: Participants at a Canadian pediatric hospital were identified to discuss their experience with otoplasty and any anxiety they experienced using a semi-structured interview. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using a qualitative semantic thematic approach. Major themes were identified and supporting quotes were extracted from the interviews. Results: Ten participants were enrolled in the study. Three main themes (and seven subthemes) were identified: concern for post-operative well-being (perception by others, physical well-being, and negative experiences), fear of the unknown (surgical uncertainty, vulnerability), and support (family and friends, surgeon). Conclusions: Otoplasty was shown to be an emotional experience for participants with multiple sources of anxiety being identified. While most anxiety sources were similar to those for other pediatric surgeries, a number were specific to otoplasty and its post-operative care plan. This understanding of anxiety will allow physicians and care teams to better prepare patients and their families for otoplasty and enhance the patient's overall experience.