Short summary

A mixed-methods multicentric Danish study aiming to explore the perspectives of both patients and physicians regarding the use of intestinal ultrasound (IUS) in the management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease. The integration of qualitative and quantitative findings will provide a comprehensive understanding of the perceived advantages, disadvantages, shortcomings, and opportunities associated with IUS, as well as identifying key arguments for its wider implementation.

Rationale

Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is a non-invasive, radiation-free, and patient-friendly imaging modality increasingly used in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Despite its advantages, global access to IUS remains limited. This study aims to explore patient perspectives on IUS and compare these perspectives with the knowledge and clinical experience of treating physicians. By investigating both patient and physician perspectives, this study aims to generate data aiming to address the concerns and questions of all stakeholders - patients, nurses, physicians, administrators, hospital directors, policy makers, and payers - by highlighting the potential benefits of IUS for each group. This includes arguments for long-term cost-effectiveness, improved patient satisfaction, and the potential for earlier diagnosis and thus improved prognosis.

Description of the cohort

The study aims to include at least 4 IBD outpatients and one IBD inpatient per hospital, totaling a minimum of 20 patients. Patients should have a confirmed diagnosis of IBD, experience with or are scheduled for IUS. In addition, six physician interviews per hospital, totaling 24 physician interviews, with equal distribution among physicians with varying levels of IUS competence. In addition to the human interviews, three different large language models (LLMs) or AI models will be presented with the same open-ended questions used in the patient and physician interviews.

Data and biological material

This study will employ a sequential exploratory mixed methods design involving an initial qualitative phase (semi-structured interviews) followed by a quantitative phase (questionnaire survey). Demographic data and information related to the diagnosis and treatment are self-reported.

Collaborating researchers and departments

Digestive Disease Center, Bispebjerg Hospital Copenhagen 

• Rune Wilkens
• Caroline Elisabeth Krag

Gastroenterology Department, Herlev Hospital

• Jacob W. Bjerrum
• Charlotte Kühnel

Internal medicine Department, Nordsjællands Hospital

• Ruben Due Lorentsen
• Gorm Roager Madsen

Hvidovre Hospital

• Christoph Norden
• Mikkel Malham