Informative video improves comprehension and satisfaction in laparoscopic cholecystectomy consent

This single-center randomized controlled trial in Turkey enrolled 264 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients were randomized to receive either standard verbal consent only (control group) or standard verbal consent plus an informative video (video-consent group). The primary outcome was not reported; secondary outcomes included patient comprehension measured by an 8-question knowledge test and patient satisfaction measured by the 32-point Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ-8).

Patients in the video-consent group demonstrated significantly higher comprehension scores in the surgery category (p = 0.032) and the complications category (p = 0.048). Specific questions (Question 5, p = 0.021; Question 7, p = 0.043) also showed significant differences. Satisfaction scores on the CSQ-8 were higher in the video-consent group (p = 0.044). A positive correlation was found between satisfaction and comprehension scores (p < 0.001). A negative correlation was found between older age and comprehension (p = 0.041). Among secondary-educated patients, comprehension scores were significantly higher in the video-consent group (p = 0.039).

Safety was assessed via patient self-report of adverse events or discomfort related to the consent process or video; no specific adverse events, serious adverse events, discontinuations, or tolerability issues were reported. Key limitations include the single-center design and the need for further studies to explore broader applicability. Funding and conflicts of interest were not reported.

The study's practice relevance suggests video-assisted consent is a valuable adjunct to traditional methods. However, the evidence is from a single center, and the lack of reported absolute effect sizes and primary outcome data requires cautious interpretation. The correlation findings regarding age and education level warrant further investigation.