MRI of the lumbar spine is a clinically important examination in low back pain (LBP) when serious underlying pathology or radiculopathy is suspected or when pain does not improve, e.g. to identify herniated discs. The general population has high confidence in this modality. Little documented knowledge exists about how the MRI results should be communicated to the patients in an optimal way. The aim of this study was to explore the patients' perspectives, i.e. worries, thoughts and interpretations of terms used when health care providers convey the MRI results. 79 patients with chronic LBP were included in a broader study of consultations at Funen Back Centre by which the results of MRI were conveyed. 43 of these patients were selected for a qualitative study until information saturation was reached. After the clinical consultation, each patient was interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were audio-recorded and fully transcribed. The transcripts were analysed using Giorgi's method as modified by Malterud. There was a broad variation in the patients' worries, thoughts and expectations prior to the consultations. Worries were linked to a diversity of possible causes (or finding no explanation) of the pain as well as consequences for function and treatment. We found a broad spectrum of interpretations of terms used, for instance content and meaning of “wear and tear” or disc herniation. Subjects had a high confidence in the reliability of MRI.Purposes of the study and background
Summary of methods used and results
