Patient and Service User Representation in Language Assessments on an Awake Craniotomy Pathway

Abstract AIMS Awake craniotomy (AC) with language mapping facilitates maximal safe intracranial tumour resection whilst preserving neurological function [1], and is associated with increased postoperative patient satisfaction and quality of life [2, 3]. We examine patients’ preoperative language assessment scores, alongside cultural and sociodemographic information to consider the impact on surgical planning and patient outcomes. METHOD A service evaluation of assessment tools was undertaken using clinical note audit and clinician reflections. Retrospective data collection from 48 patients assessed for AC with language mapping included language assessment scores, cultural and sociodemographic data, and surgical plan for awake or asleep tumour resection. RESULTS Analysis suggests language assessment scores may be influenced by a range of patient factors outside of the lesion location and its associated language deficits, including native language, age, ethnicity and religion. CONCLUSION Assessment scores influence a patient’s suitability for AC with language mapping and subsequent morbidity and mortality outcomes. Culture and sociodemographic background are integral to daily language use, and can therefore be expected to influence scores on language assessment tasks. This evaluation highlights the necessity for diversity of language use to be reflected in assessment tools used within an AC pathway. REFERENCES 1. Hervey-Jumper, S.L. and M.S. Berger, Maximizing safe resection of low- and high-grade glioma. JNO, 2016. 2. Wahab, S.S., P.L. Grundy, and C. Weidmann, Patient experience and satisfaction with awake craniotomy for brain tumours. BJNS, 2011. 3. Coello, A.F., et al., Selection of intraoperative tasks for awake mapping based on relationships between tumor location and functional networks: A review. JNS, 2013.