Gauging the Acceptance of Telemedicine in Postoperative Evaluation of Uncomplicated Laparoscopic Appendectomy and Cholecystectomy.

BACKGROUND

Telemedicine is a rising field, with continuous expansion into different realms of health care delivery. However, minimal research has been done to analyze the utilization in surgical specialties. This study aims to assess satisfaction and acceptance of postoperative telehealth care after uncomplicated general surgery cases.

METHODS

Patients who had undergone uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy or uncomplicated laparoscopic appendectomy were eligible to be enrolled in this study. Patients with gangrenous gallbladder, malignancy, operative complications, or appendix perforation were excluded. The experimental group underwent postoperative follow-up within a web-based platform (http://bluejeans.com), whereas the control group had an in-person clinic visit. Survey results containing satisfaction, comfort, and time usage were obtained. Likert scale 1-5 was utilized to quantify responses.

RESULTS

Thirty patients were enrolled into this prospective single intervention trial (20 experimental, 10 control). Ninety percent (n = 18) of the experimental group stated satisfaction with their visit, and 75% (n = 15) would suggest telemedicine usage to other physicians. Postoperative visit satisfaction was not statistically different between the experimental and control groups (4.2 vs. 4.5, p = 0.124). A higher percentage of the control group took >3 h for the visit than the telemedicine group (30% vs. 15%), with two individuals in the control group dedicating their full day to the visit, compared with zero individuals in the experimental group. Comfort with technology used during the visit was not statistically different between the telemedicine and in-person groups (4.35 vs. 4.5, p = 0.641).

CONCLUSIONS

Telemedicine for postoperative evaluation on selective general surgery cases is feasible and provides adequate patient satisfaction and improved time utilization.