Author(s): Ida Marie Tabangay – Lim, MD. FPCS, FPSGS, FPAHNSI; Maria Elizabeth Mercado, MD, MAS; Maria Cheryl Cucueco, MD, FPCS, FPSGS; Alfred Philip de Dios, MD, FPCS, FPSGS and Venerio Gasataya, Jr., FPCS, FPSGS

Abstract:
Rationale: In 2008, the Philippine College of Surgeons in collaboration with the Philippine Society of General Surgeons and the Philippine Academy of Head and Neck Surgeons, Inc. had published Evidence-based Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) on the Diagnosis and Management of Thyroid Nodules. This was followed by an update in 2013 with a focus on important diagnostic and therapeutic management issues concerning thyroid malignancy. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge gaps and behavioral patterns among users with respect to these CPGs.

Methods: A validated 30 item survey assessing knowledge of, attitudes towards, and adherence to the recommendations of different Evidence based Clinical Practice Guidelines was administered to general surgery residents, PSGS fellows, and otorhinolaryngology residents and consultants performing thyroidectomies.

Results: There were 343 assessable forms. Of the respondents, 276 (80.47%) were general surgeons, 33 (9.62%) were otorhinolaryngologists. There were 66 (19.24%) consultants, and 277 (80.76%) residents. Otorhinolaryngologists were less aware of the local CPGs than their GS counterparts. GS Residents, compared to their consultants, were more aware of the American Thyroid Association guidelines than the local guidelines. Among all respondents, the local guidelines had about equal preference for usage as the American Thyroid Association guidelines. There were no statistically significant differences on the level of knowledge and attitudes among the respondents.

Conclusions: The level of awareness about the PCS Thyroid Guidelines needs to be improved. The dissemination process needs to be reviewed and ensure that all stakeholders will be reached.

Key words: thyroid, clinical practice guidelines

DOI: Link to follow