Evaluating a Constipation Podcast to Prevent Constipation Before and After Orthopedic Surgery Randomized Trial for Adults Undergoing Knee, Hip, Shoulder, or Back Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effect of a podcast about constipation on patients undergoing planned orthopedic surgeries such as knee, hip, shoulder, and back operations. This randomized controlled trial aims to see if the podcast can reduce the number of patients experiencing constipation before and after surgery. The study includes adults 18 years or older who can use digital devices and do not have certain gastrointestinal conditions or severe hearing or cognitive impairments. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a control group or an intervention group. Both groups receive standard preoperative information, but the intervention group also gets access to a 30-minute podcast featuring expert explanations and patient experiences related to constipation around surgery. The podcast is accessible throughout the study period. Data will be collected through online questionnaires at four points after the preoperative consultation, shortly before surgery, one week after surgery, and four weeks after surgery. During the study, participants will complete questionnaires assessing constipation using the ROME IV Diagnostic Criteria and quality of life related to constipation via the PAC-QOL tool. Additional information will be gathered about laxative use, educational and living situations, and healthcare contacts from patient records. The researchers will monitor hospitalizations, outpatient visits, and general practitioner contacts up to six months after surgery to evaluate the overall impact. Participation lasts from pre-surgery consultation through four weeks after surgery, with some data extending to six months post-surgery.

Effect of Pre-Surgery Constipation Podcast: A RCT