BN SO41 - A systematic search and evaluation of patient information quality on Anti-reflux surgery using modified EQIP Score

Abstract Background GORD affects 20% of western populations and internet searches are a key resource for patients considering surgery. An assessment of the quality of public intended electronic information can highlight a need for improved material to aide patient education. This study assesses the quality of internet information on anti-reflux surgery using the validated Modified Ensuring Quality Information for Patients (EQIP) tool. Method A systematic analysis of the top 200 results for the search engine query “Anti-reflux surgery” was conducted. Google (UK) was used. Search results aimed solely for healthcare professionals were excluded. Results were evaluated using the modified (EQIP) tool (score 0-36) and evaluation performed on information on surgery benefits, risks and complications. Results 107 of 200 websites were included in the main study. The majority (43%) originated from UK, while 40% were from USA. Median EQIP score for all websites was 16. Median EQIP scores for the 3 domains were 7/18, 1/6 and 8/12 for content, identification data and structure respectively. Benefits of surgery was described on 71%, surgery risks on 66%, and complications on 11%. However, only 16% of websites described the quantitative risks of surgery. Information on postoperative recovery was included on 63%, emergency advice on 22%, and mortality rates on 7% of websites. Conclusion We observed most public intended internet searches lacked information on the quantitative risks and complications of anti-reflux surgery. Moreover, the information provided was insufficient on morbidity and mortality to adequately assist patients make informed decisions. This study supports the need for improved quality of patient intended publicly available information accessible online on Anti-reflux surgery.