Skip to main content

Table 3 Disease perception and experiences of postoperative patients with TAAD

From: Exploring disease perception and experiences of postoperative patients with Stanford type A aortic dissection: a qualitative study

Themes

Subthemes

Significant symptom burden

Memorable chest and back pain

Sleep disorders

Abnormal heart beating sounds

Dizziness

Discomfort of the wound

Numbness or tingling in the lower limbs

Complex and varied psychological experiences

Fear and dread of the experience of illness

Helplessness and frustration towards the current situation

Concerns about future life

A deep appreciation for the restoration of life’s precious existence

Different coping styles

Proactive psychological adjustment

Building confidence in recovery

Positive self-management

Scale back on socializing

Diverse needs for health services

Disease-related knowledge needs

Need for follow-up guidance

Social support needs