VCA-Qual

PI(s)

Initiating PI: Dr. Laura A. Siminoff
Partnering PI: Dr. Heather M. Gardiner

Research Partners

Coatesville VA Medical Center – Coatesville, PA

Main question this project tries to answer

To understand the potential demand for VCA and to develop an evidence base to assist in the development of a shared decision-making process that will help this vulnerable group of military veterans, along with their family caregivers, make authentic treatment decisions and optimize the results of VCA by assuring adherence with graft care.

Background

Military operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locales around the world have left thousands of American service members with catastrophic injuries to the head, neck, extremities, and face. Though severe, these injuries are associated with high rates of survival, leaving soldiers with significant disfigurement and functional limitations. Vascularized composite allografts (VCAs), such as transplantable hands or faces, offer an increasingly viable, alternative treatment option for individuals with severe injuries who have not responded well to currently available reconstructive procedures or prosthetics.

Methods used

Semi-structured interviews, Delphi panel, qualitative analysis

Results, in 2 sentences or less

N/A

Actions taken from the results

Will ultimately develop a shared decision-making process that will help military veterans, along with their family caregivers, make authentic treatment decisions.

Contact person and email

Ellen Davis: ellen.davis@temple.edu