Abstract
Explanation of brain tumor imaging (BTI) complexities to patients is a challenge in neuro-oncology. With limited tools, neuro-oncologist attempt to demonstrate tumor volumes and anatomy, estimate surgical risks, and treatment responses. Arming clinicians with alternative BTI might help alleviate the stress of initial patient consults and follow-up surveillance visits. These interactions are critical to the physician-patient relationship, patient compliance, and satisfaction. Currently, 2D-MRI review is standard, often leaving the patient with a less-than-complete understanding of their tumor. Historically, 3D-Brain-Tumor-Modeling (3DBTM) has been used for neurosurgical simulation and planning. Here, we evaluated the use 3DBTM alongside routine MRI impact on patient health literacy and satisfaction. Our institution introduced 3DBTM as a best practice approach. Images were presented as 3D video or tangible 3D color renditions, or 2D MRI. We collected patient pre-visit and post-visit surveys to assess patient’s understanding of tumor features, opportunity to review images, and patient level of satisfaction. Data from 277 pre-visit and 159 post-visit surveys was collected from the Geisinger Neuro-Oncology Clinic over a six-month period. Post-visit survey categories included reviews of: 3DBTM (n=54), 2D-MRI (n=51), and no imaging (n=55). Patients without CNS tumors were excluded (n=101). Pre-visit surveys showed 30% (n=82) of patients had little-to-no prior understanding of their tumor location and size, and 53% (n=147) of patients believed that a 3DBTM would improve their understanding. Post-visit analysis demonstrated that only 21% (n= 29) of patients reported not seeing any imaging during the visit. Nearly 85% (n=46) of patients who had reviewed a 3DBTM noted improved tumor understanding. Of the patients who solely viewed 2D-MRI, 68% (n=35) reported improved understanding of their tumor but would like more advanced imaging teaching. In total, 84% of patients noted overall satisfaction with the clinic visit. These results support the use of 3DBTM in patient education and facilitating clinical interviews.