Total knee arthroplasty patients' psychosocial processes related to the treatment process, activities of daily living and experiences of return to physical activity

The aim of this study is to examine the psychosocial processes related to the treatment process, activities of daily living and return to physical activity experiences of total knee replacement patients. This study was conducted with a qualitative research approach. Semi-structured interview technique was used to collect the data. The study was performed with a total of 34 patients, 18 female and 16 male (Age: 69.75±7.30, BMI: 30.37±5.11 kg/m2). The sample size was determined as the number of interviews at which the qualitative data reached saturation. The transcripts obtained from the interviews with the patients were analyzed with a thematic approach and 11 main themes and 37 explanatory sub-themes were reached. The findings of the study showed that quality private healthcare services provided to patients with high socioeconomic status had a positive impact on treatment success and patient satisfaction in general. The professional competencies and behaviors of surgeons, physiotherapists and assistive health personnel were found to be at the center of positive or negative patient experiences. Performing the surgery in the right clinical setting and the decision to apply unilateral or bilateral prosthesis is one of the critical factors affecting treatment success and patient satisfaction. In addition to all these, it has been observed that patients having a strong psychological structure has a positive effect on treatment success, while negative emotions such as anxiety, fear and depression, especially before surgery, negatively affect treatment success and patient satisfaction. As a result, it can be concluded that eliminating the problems caused by surgeons, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals can significantly increase treatment success and patient satisfaction. In addition, it is thought that the implementation of the necessary regulations against the negativities such as appointment and patient follow-up problems and long waiting times caused by the overcrowding in the health system can increase treatment success and patient satisfaction. In order to provide solutions to these problems, which have negative effects on the health budget and thus on the national economy, it is important that all relevant actors and authorities provide the necessary contributions. Keywords: Total Knee Arthroplasty Surgery, Activities of Daily Living, Physical Activity; Psychosocial Processes, Qualitative Research