Patient preferences and perceptions of inflammatory bowel disease monitoring tools: a cross-sectional survey from a specialized gastroenterology clinic in Panama

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate patient preferences and perceptions regarding commonly used tools for monitoring inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including colonoscopy, intestinal ultrasound (IUS), computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (CT/MRI), and fecal calprotectin (FC). Materials and methods: A cross-sectional anonymous electronic survey was administered to adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of IBD attending a specialized private gastroenterology clinic in Panama. Eighty-two patients were invited to participate, and fifty-one completed the survey. Intestinal ultrasound was associated with the highest levels of satisfaction and acceptability. Results: Colonoscopy was most frequently perceived as providing physicians with the most useful clinical information and as the test that best helped patients understand their disease status. When asked which single test they would prefer to repeat for ongoing disease monitoring, most participants selected IUS. These findings suggest that patients favor non-invasive monitoring strategies, although colonoscopy continues to be perceived as the diagnostic reference standard. Conclusions: Improving patient education regarding the clinical value of IUS may facilitate broader adoption of patient-centered monitoring approaches in routine practice.