Brief Behavioral Intervention for Distressed Patients Undergoing Cancer Surgery: A Case Series

Preoperative distress is associated with poor postoperative outcomes, such as increased risk of surgical site infection and readmission, and brief psychosocial interventions delivered during the perioperative period may improve postoperative mental and physical health. However, there are few protocols for screening and treating distress in the surgical oncology selling. The current article describes the development and feasibility pilot testing of a four-session intervention (Behavioral Intervention for Wellness and Engaged Living (Be-WELD) that combines behavioral and self-management strategies to manage preoperative distress and improve postoperative recovery. Data from three patients who participated in an ongoing open clinical trial are reviewed to illustrate the feasibility, acceptability, and potential strengths and limitations of this intervention.