Abstract 10977: Shared Decision-Making in Athletes Diagnosed With a Cardiovascular Condition: A Scoping Review

Introduction: Exercise restriction following the identification of a cardiovascular condition can profoundly impact the identity, career, and well-being of athletes. Shared decision-making (SDM) is emerging as the standard of care to guide recommendations for athletes at risk of cardiovascular events. This scoping review summarizes existing approaches, barriers, and facilitators to SDM in sports cardiology. Methods: A literature search of the MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and PsycInfo databases was conducted in January 2022. Abstract screening and full-text review were completed in duplicate by independent reviewers. The PCC (Participants, Concepts, Context) framework was used to assess study eligibility. Included articles discussed the use of SDM (C/C) following the diagnosis of a cardiovascular condition in an athlete (P). Results: A total of 6,049 records were screened, of which 38 were included in this review. Article classifications included theoretical papers (31), such as editorials and guidelines, and research studies (7). Main findings of the research studies are shown in Table 1. All selected articles defined SDM as an open dialogue between the athlete, healthcare team, and other stakeholders (e.g., parents, coaches). The benefits and risks of management strategies, treatment options, and return-to-play were the focus of this dialogue. Common themes among SDM approaches emerged, such as emphasizing patient values, considering non-physical factors (e.g., emotional, psychological, financial), and informed consent. Barriers to SDM included pressure from institutions and liability of healthcare providers in the case of adverse events. Conclusions: SDM is the recommended paradigm for providing care to athletes diagnosed with cardiovascular conditions. Further education for healthcare providers regarding the SDM approach, as well as future research assessing SDM in a clinical setting, is needed.