Exploring the quality-of-life impact of driving license surrender in patients undergoing stereotactic radiosurgery/radiotherapy (SRS/SRT) for brain metastases at a single centre.

Introduction

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) is the treatment of choice for patients with brain metastasis subject to NHS commissioning criteria. Upon diagnosis patients are required to inform the DVLA and to cease from driving. During the SRS consultation at least 25% of patients are unaware of this and will often say that having to give up driving is worse than a diagnosis of brain metastasis due to the perceived impact on mobility and independence. In the absence of QoL driving cessation (DC) data within radiotherapy the aim of this study was to investigate the impact of DC on patients who have been treated with Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS).

Methods

All patients who had SRS between August 2017-December 2021 with a Karnofsky Performance Status of 60 or above received an anonymised questionnaire, analysis of closed question quantitative data was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) and descriptive statistics. Content analysis was performed with the qualitative information provided via open, free text questions.

Results

132 patients were included with a response of 36%. All QoL themes focusing on mobility, independence, social interactions, mood change and overall quality of life demonstrated a negative impact on QoL, and that written information would be useful.

Conclusion

Results indicated that there is a link between DC and reduction in QoL. Wider investigation of this is recommended to gain a deeper understanding of the impact. Research indicated that some of the negative impact could be mitigated with a supportive intervention, considered an important step in enhancing patient experience and care.

Implications for practice

This study will help highlight and provoke discussion as to how patients can be supported as a result of DC.