Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate the use of decision aids for hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) regarding the potential risks and benefits of different treatment options.

Methods

A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted of 147 patients with advanced hip or knee OA to compare the effect of two decision aids (booklet-only vs. booklet with DVD).

Results

Both decision aid programs were well received and demonstrated improvements in patient knowledge and willingness to participate in treatment decisions. The decision aids, however, had a marginal effect on patient willingness to participate in OA management, with an increase of 0.11 and 0.6 on a scale of 2 (P = 0.58) between groups.

Conclusions

The decision aids were accepted for most patients and effective in improving patient knowledge and willingness to participate in the decision process. Nevertheless, the addition of a more expensive DVD to the booklet program did not improve patient acceptance or knowledge.