Discussing life expectancy with surgical patients: do patients want to know and how should this information be delivered?

Background: Predicted patient life expectancy (LE) and survival probability (SP), based on a patient's medical history, are important components of surgical decision-making and informed consent. The objective of this study was to assess patients' interpretation of and desire to know information relating to LE, in addition to establishing the most effective format for discussion.

Methods: A cross sectional survey of 120 patients (mean age = 68.

Clinical judgment analysis of the parameters used by consultant urologists in the management of prostate cancer.

Purpose: We assessed which clinical parameters consultant urologists use to recommend treatment for early prostate cancer.

Materials And Methods: A total of 30 consultant urologists reviewed 70 paper representations of patients with prostate cancer. Each contained 7 commonly available cues, including prostate specific antigen, Gleason grade, rectal examination, magnetic resonance imaging/laparoscopic stage, medical history, patient choice and age, in addition to 2 cues not yet routinely available, that is predicted life expectancy and 10-year survival probability, as calculated using actuarial formulas based on noncancer comorbidity.