Anxiety, depression, perceptions and feelings of women with cancer referred for pelvic exenteration surgery

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate depression and anxiety in women with cancer who were referred for pelvic exenteration (PE), and to identify their perceptions and feelings regarding PE. Methods: Six women (aged between 37 and 64 years,) undergoing cancer treatment at a hospital in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil, took part in the study. Sociodemographic data were collected and a semi-structured interview and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were employed. Results: The overall findings revealed emotional implications related to PE. Anxiety and depression were experienced by the participants (50% and 66.7%, respectively) before the surgery. The interviews showed doubts and fears regarding the surgical outcomes as well as expectations for cancer cure. Anxiety, fear and worries associated with ostomies also emerged. Conclusion: Longitudinal studiesmay contribute to a broader understanding of the impact of this surgery, including the postoperativeperiod. It is possible to highlight the need to psychological assistance before the surgery to womenreferred to this highly specialized and invasive medical procedure.