FP4.5 - An assessment of web-based patient information on bowel resection in Crohn's disease

Aim Most patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) have at least one bowel resection during their lifetime. 80% of patients with terminal ileal CD (the most common phenotype) will require a bowel resection at some point. Patients considering a bowel resection for CD will likely look for information online, as is common practice among patients with chronic illnesses. The aim of this study is to assess the quality and readability of web-based patient information on bowel resection for CD. Methods GoogleTM was searched using pre-defined search terms that were developed with input from patient experts. For each term, results from the first two pages were screened for eligibility. Patient-focused websites on bowel resection for CD were included. The quality of the information was assessed using the DISCERN tool, and the readability with the Flesch-Kincaid ease of readability (FK) score. Results Of the 118 sources identified, 91 were excluded and 27 sources were analysed. A third (n=10) did not discuss the different types of resections. Ileocaecal resection (the most commonly performed resection) was described in 7 sources. Discussion of management post-resection (n=7) and of lifestyle changes (n=12) were sparse. There were some instances of factually incorrect information. The mean DISCERN score was 3.2±0.31 (range 1-5), indicating moderate quality information. The mean FK score was 49.9 (corresponding to “difficult to read”). Conclusion Professional bodies and clinicians should work alongside patient groups to develop online sources which are in appropriate lay language and evidence-based, and suit patients’ informational needs to aid patient decision making.