The real experiences of breast fibroadenoma patients on focused ultrasound ablation surgery: a semi-structure qualitative interview study

Objective: To explore the real experiences and feelings of breast fibroadenoma patients on focused ultrasound ablation surgery (FUAS). Methods: : Qualitative study was designed by using semi-structured interviews with breast fibroadenoma patients at 6-month after FUAS. The topics of interview were set in five parts, including the experiences on medical consultation, the experiences on FUAS, the views on the effect of FUAS, emotional recovery and overall perception of FUAS. Interview continued until thematic saturation was achieved. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analyzed thematically using Framework Analysis method. Results: : Fourteen patients were included in this study. Women felt anxiety about breast fibroadenoma and favored minimally-invasive or non-invasive management. They were satisfied with the experiences and therapeutic effects of FUAS. They were also willing to choose FUAS again if they had new fibroadenoma in future and recommended to other patients with breast fibroadenoma. Conclusion: From the patient’s perspective, FUAS of breast fibroadenoma effectively relieved their negative emotions, achieved their satisfaction, and improved their quality of life, which may have positive impact on the outcomes of FUAS.