A video‐based decision aid improved knowledge and decreased decisional conflict for asymptomatic persistent endodontic lesions

Aim This prospective cohort study aimed to (i) evaluate patients' treatment decisions, decisional conflict and knowledge levels before and after use of a video‐based decision aid (DA) on asymptomatic persistent endodontic lesions (APEL) and to (ii) elicit important decision factors for patients in the decision‐making process. Methodology A video DA modelled after the International Patient Decision Aids Standards (IPDAS) was designed. The video was pilot‐tested, revised and used on 50 patients referred to the graduate endodontic clinic and presenting with an incidental finding of APEL detected on radiographs, with informed consent (DSRB 2020/00133). Recruitment was conducted from June 2020 to November 2021. Patients' treatment decisions and decision‐making process were studied. Patients also completed a questionnaire on knowledge gain, decisional conflict and confidence levels. Results Forty‐three patients (48 teeth) out of 50 patients chose long‐term monitoring of APEL while 7 patients (7 teeth) decided on endodontic intervention. Median knowledge scores increased from 58.3 (IQR: 41.7, 75.0) to 87.5 (IQR: 75.0, 100.0) (p