LINEAR Study

Experiences of patients and families after open-heart surgery
Electrocardiogram (ECG) close up of heart wave on machine
This study investigates the journey of middle-aged patients who have undergone open-heart surgery for the first time, and the experiences of their family caregivers over six months.
 
 

What is the research about?

The LINEAR study aims to explore the personal experiences of men and women aged 45 to 65 who have recently had open-heart surgery. We want to learn about their physical, social, and emotional experiences during their first six months of recovery.
Additionally, the study explores how family caregivers are vital in helping patients to recover and manage their responsibilities and what support they need.
Through interviews, the study seeks to provide a deeper understanding of these experiences to improve care and support for patients and their families.
LINEAR study logo (graphic of two hands almost touching within a red heart)

Project goals

  • Understand Recovery Experiences: Learn about the recovery process for middle-aged men and women after heart surgery in the first six months after open-heart surgery
  • Identify Gender Differences: Discover if there are any differences in experiences between men and women during the first six months of recovery.
  • Support Caregivers: Explore the needs and experiences of family caregivers who assist patients during their recovery trajectory.
  • Improve Care Practices: Use the findings to enhance patient and family support in cardiac surgery care in the hospital and in home settings.

Expected Outcomes

x
Insightful Findings: Gain valuable insights into how patients and caregivers navigate recovery.
)
Recommendations: Develop recommendations to support patients and caregivers after surgery better.
~
Knowledge Sharing: Share findings through publications and presentations to improve cardiac care practices.

Why Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) matters in the LINEAR study

The LINEAR study is designed with patients and their families in mind, and we believe that their voices are essential to guide the research process.
How we involve patients:
Consultation
We consulted with patients who have experienced a heart surgery in the past to understand their opinion about our study. This feedback helped us focus on the topics that matter most to patients and their families.
Collaboration
Patients will help us to ensure that the language and materials we use are patient-friendly and that our approach is supportive and considerate. Family caregivers are also included in the LINEAR study, based on patients’ suggestions.
Stakeholder Representation
Two members of our research team are patients who have experienced open-heart surgery. Both have joined us as key stakeholders. They will participate in the LINEAR research meetings from time to time to provide feedback and guidance. Their involvement helps us in keeping the highest standard of research that is meaningful for all stakeholders in heart surgery.

PPIE members (people with lived experiences)

We welcome two members to our research team:
Chloe Sellwood
  • Ultra-distance runner, NHS emergency planner and cardiac arrest survivor.
  • Open heart surgery and S-ICB inserted in early 2019.
  • ‘Including patient lived experience in the supervisor team is helping to ensure a truly holistic approach to the research’
Laurence Humphreys-Davies
  • Retired physical oil broker.
  • 10 years lived experience of heart failure with numerous medical procedures behind him.
  • Now optimised on titrated medications and coping, with a positive outlook on life.
Profile images of Chloe Sellwood and Laurence Humphreys-Davies