An exploration of obese patients’ beliefs and expectations relating to bariatric surgery, using Thematic Analysis

• Main Author: Shearer, Ross Thomas
• Published: University of Glasgow 2010
• Subjects: 155; BF Psychology
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.523369

Background: Bariatric surgery (BS) is becoming a more commonly accepted approach to the treatment of obesity, but little is known about the views of patients who have undergone this procedure. This study aims to explore obese patients’ beliefs and expectations, from before and after their laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) surgery. Their views regarding the procedure, the role of the LAGB, their own role following surgery and the impact of the surgery, were of particular interest. Method: Eight patients were interviewed 12 months (+/- 2 Months) after undergoing LAGB surgery. Participants were purposively recruited from the Glasgow and Clyde Weight Management Service (GCWMS), on a first come basis. Each participant completed an in-depth interview in order to explore his/her beliefs and expectations about LAGB surgery. Interviews were transcribed and the qualitative interview data were subject to Thematic Analysis. Results: Three superordinate themes emerged from the analysis and an analytic narrative was constructed under the headings 'The Need for Surgery', ‘Not a Quick-fix’ and ‘Importance of Support'. Conclusions: Although LAGB surgery results in many beneficial outcomes for patients, the expectations they hold about surgery may affect their ability to cope post-surgery, impacting on weight loss outcomes. The participant accounts highlighted that they have come to see the band as an ‘aid’ and that they themselves play an important role in managing their eating behaviours. Additionally, patients require support from a range of sources in order to maximise outcomes. A number of implications for clinical practice and future research are outlined.