AcademicArticleSCO_85055268282

abstract

• © 2018, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. All rights reserved. Objective: Although the reasons for breast reconstruction are considered in clinics and research on breast cancer, there is not any validated scale for its evaluation. The objective of the study was to create a scale to measure the reasons for and against breast reconstruction. Method: Through the technique of natural semantic networks, the items of the scale were obtained, and through an expert judgment these were modified. The technique of semantic networks was applied to 65 Mexican women with breast cancer. The group of experts was formed by 12 specialists in breast cancer. Results: The central core of the reasons in favor of breast reconstruction was composed of 16 reasons, which can be grouped into esthetic/body image, functional, emotional/psychological and relationship with children and the couple. The core of the motives against breast reconstruction was composed of 11 motives, which can be grouped into fears, acceptance/comfort with the present situation, costs and health. Based on these contents, 16 items were written about reasons for reconstruction and 11 against reconstruction. This 27-item scale was evaluated in adequacy and comprehensibility by the group of 12 experts. The 27 items were conserved, but seven items were modified. Finally, two items on the lack of information were added, which was marked in Mexican studies. Conclusions: It is suggested to study the reliability, validity and distribution of the 29 item scale.