Patients Satisfaction with the Methods of Treatment used for Gallstones: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: If gallstones are not causing discomfort, there is usually no need to treat them. Many people with gallstones do not experience any symptoms for a long time. In addition, any treatment can have side effects, and operations are always associated with a certain level of risk. Gallbladder stones are treated differently than stones in the bile duct. If symptoms such as cramp-like pain (colic) occur, they can be relieved with medication. Such pain can only be prevented permanently by removing the gallbladder. An operation is also an option for people without symptoms but with very large gallstones - or with a porcelain gallbladder. The wall of the gallbladder is calcified and there is an increased risk of gallbladder cancer. Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study to spotlight the satisfaction levels of the Saudi Population towards the different treatment options for gallstones.  The study was carried out at universities, hospitals, and malls in KSA. Data were collected from patients and the general population during a period from June to October 2021. Results: Most of the patients were highly satisfied with the treatment clarification done by the treating doctor (n= 42, 8.8%), the treatment choice for gallstones, the complications that occurred during their treatment period (n= 34, 7.1%), their condition after the end of the treatment period (n= 41, 8.6%), and the treatment method for condition (n=35, 7.3%). On the other hand, there was a proportion of participants who were not satisfied with the treatment duration (n= 39, 8.1%) and the follow-up after the end of the treatment period (n= 46, 9.6%). Conclusion: Participants are highly satisfied with treatment choice and treatment effectiveness. However, they were not satisfied with treatment duration and treatment complications.