The department developed an interactive Breast
Reconstruction DVD for patients. The DVD was sent out to
all GP practices in the county and is given to patients who
are considering reconstructive surgery when they come for
consultation. It is freely distributed by the breast cancer
charity to help empower the patients, by giving them
information on what is now possible. It includes a section
on what happens to patients when they are admitted to
hospital to help ease their worries.
The DVD includes pre and post operative picture of patients
and computer animation. The voice-overs were done by
the plastic surgeons themselves, in the same manner as if
it were an outpatient consultant. Video interview footage
of patients was included, and patient input was very
important to drive the way in which the DVD was
constructed. The DVD has made a huge difference to the
patient experience when they use the service and the team
are glad that they used their time on a useful and
worthwhile project. As a team, they all pulled together
with mutual support and respect. The project shows what
can be achieved when patients, nurses, surgeons and the
whole healthcare team pull together, using their time and
passion.
“Having had a mastectomy and subsequent treatment for
breast cancer, I was offered the opportunity to have a
breast reconstruction…. When I returned to the
department for regular check ups I noticed a very large,
informative poster which explained the various options
available for breast reconstruction. My first thoughts were:
Why wasn’t something like this available when I was
making my decision? . We (The Crazy Hats Breast Cancer
Appeal) were heavily involved in the making of the DVD
and it was a very proud moment when it was launched….
We feel certain that it has made a vast difference to
patients and medical staff and that “everyone” is now more
informed about breast reconstruction in general.”
For more information on this project, please contact:
kulbinder.nandhra@uhl-tr.nhs.uk
