CompletedObservational

How do we define and identify high-risk surgical patients

This study aims to understand what 'high-risk' truly means for patients and doctors when planning surgeries like those on the bowel, pancreas, or gullet. Currently, the definition mainly focuses on a 5% chance of dying, but this doesn't fully capture the impact of other complications or how patients feel. The research will gather opinions from adults who have had these operations and from surgeons and anaesthetists. By comparing these views with typical medical records, the study hopes to create a better definition of 'high-risk'. This could lead to improved ways of identifying and supporting patients before surgery, ensuring their care is better suited to their individual needs and what matters most to them.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

University of Glasgow

Enrolment target

Start

01 Aug 2025

Estimated completion

30 Mar 2026

Patients' and clinicians' perceptions of label of 'high-risk' in context of elective general surgery.

What is this study about?

This research is all about understanding what it means to be considered 'high-risk' for planned surgery, like operations on your bowel, pancreas, or gullet. Right now, doctors often define 'high-risk' based on statistics – specifically, a 5 in 100 chance of someone dying. However, this definition might not fully reflect the reality for patients having planned operations, as the actual chance of dying is often lower. What's more, it doesn't always consider other complications that can have a big impact on a patient's life, or how patients themselves feel about these risks.

Being labelled 'high-risk' can lead to important decisions about a patient's care. This study wants to find out what patients and their doctors actually think about this 'high-risk' label. It will explore how this label affects the decisions made and the discussions had before surgery. The researchers also want to compare these personal experiences and views with the standard medical outcomes that are usually recorded.

The main goal is to create a new, clearer definition of 'high-risk' that truly represents what matters most to everyone involved – both patients and healthcare professionals. By doing this, the study hopes to improve how patients who are considered 'high-risk' are identified and supported in their care, making sure their experiences and concerns are better heard and understood.

Key takeaways

Aims to redefine 'high-risk' in planned surgery from patient and doctor perspectives.
Specifically focuses on bowel, pancreas, or gullet (oesophagus) cancer surgeries.
Involves patient focus groups and an online survey for doctors.
Seeks to improve patient identification and care for 'high-risk' individuals.
Your privacy and anonymity are strictly protected throughout the study.
Your insights could directly lead to better care for future patients.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for two groups of people to take part. First, they need adults aged 18 and over who have had a planned operation on their bowel, pancreas, or gullet (oesophagus) for cancer in the last year. This operation must have taken place in one of the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde hospitals, and you must have already left the hospital. You also need to be willing and able to comfortably join in a group discussion.

The second group is for healthcare professionals: doctors who specialise in general surgery or anaesthetics across the UK. This includes both those still training and those who are consultants. They need to be currently working in the NHS and willing to complete a short online survey.

Unfortunately, if you are under 18, had an emergency operation, or your surgery was not for cancer or wasn't one of the specific types mentioned, you won't be able to join the patient focus groups. Also, if you are still in hospital, or uncomfortable with group discussions, you won't be able to take part in the patient study.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Did you have a planned (not emergency) operation for cancer on your bowel, pancreas, or gullet in the last year?
Was your operation at an NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde hospital?
Have you been discharged from the hospital?
Are you comfortable and willing to take part in a group discussion?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join the patient focus group study, you'll first get some information to read and then sign a consent form. You'll fill out a short questionnaire (about 15 minutes) asking about your understanding of being 'high-risk' for surgery and medical terms. Then, you'll take part in a focus group discussion, which will last approximately 1 to 2 hours. This will be a comfortable chat with other patients, guided by a facilitator, about your experiences and thoughts. You might meet in person (with refreshments and travel money) or online, depending on what most people prefer. Your discussion will be audio-recorded but kept completely private, and you'll get a unique study ID to keep your information anonymous. Afterwards, you can ask for a summary of the results.

If you're a doctor, you'll be invited to complete a short online survey about your views on 'high-risk' patients in planned surgery. This survey is completely anonymous and won't collect any details that could identify you. You'll need to agree that your anonymous answers can be used for analysis and shared.

Potential risks and benefits

For patients, taking part gives you a chance to share your views and experiences, which could help improve care for others. If the focus group is in person, you'll get refreshments, travel expenses covered, and a voucher. The main commitment is your time – about 15 minutes for a questionnaire and 1.5 to 2 hours for the group discussion, plus any travel. Some topics might be sensitive or emotional, but you can bring a friend for support, and resources will be provided if you need extra emotional help. You can also choose what you share and can withdraw at any time. For doctors, the main risk is the small amount of time it takes to complete the anonymous online survey. Your participation in both parts of the study is voluntary, and you are free to change your mind and stop participating at any point.

Locations (7)

Glasgow Royal Infirmary
Approximate
Glasgow, Scotland
Royal Alexandra Hospital
Approximate
Paisley, Scotland
Queen Elizabeth University Hospital
Approximate
Glasgow, Scotland
Gartnavel General Hospital
Approximate
Glasgow, Scotland
New Victoria Hospital
Approximate
Glasgow, Scotland
Stobhill Hospital
Approximate
Glasgow, Scotland
Inverclyde Royal Hospital
City only
Greenock, Scotland

Common questions

What does an 'elective' surgery mean?

It means a planned operation that is scheduled in advance, rather than an emergency surgery.

Will my personal details be kept secret?

Yes, all your information will be kept confidential and anonymised, meaning your name won't be linked to your answers or discussions.

Do I have to travel for the study?

For patient focus groups, a single meeting format (in-person or online) will be chosen based on what most people prefer. If it's in-person, travel costs will be covered.

What if I feel uncomfortable during the discussion?

You can choose what you share, bring a support person, and resources for emotional support will be available. You can also leave the group at any time.

When will the study results be ready?

The study runs from January 2025 to May 2026. Participants will have the opportunity to receive a summary of the results once they are available.

How to find out more

Anna-Marie Tiah

anna-marie.tiah@glasgow.ac.uk - Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.