Quality of care for remote orthopaedic consultations using telemedicine: a randomised controlled trial

Telehealth Potential in Pediatric Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Care is Comparable to In-Person Care But Disparities Remain

BACKGROUND

Understanding the challenges and potential of telehealth visits (THVs) in a large population can inform future practice and policy discussion for pediatric orthopaedic and sports medicine (OSM) care. We comprehensively assess telehealth challenges and potential in a large pediatric OSM population based on access, visit completion, patient satisfaction, and technological challenges.

METHODS

Demographics, address, insurance, visit information, patient feedback, experience with video visits, and technical challenges of all 2019 to 2020 visits at our hospital were assessed (3,278,006 visits). We evaluated the differences in rate of telehealth utilization, rate of patient adherence, disparities in care access and patient satisfaction, and technological issues.

RESULTS

Compared with in-person prepandemic visits, THVs had lower ratios of non-White patients (by 5.8%; P <0.001), Hispanic patients (by 2.8%; P <0.001) and patients with public insurance (by 1.8%; P <0.001), and a higher mean distance between the patient's residence and clinic (by 18.8 miles; P <0.001). There were minimal differences in median household income (average $2297 less in THV; P <0.001) and social vulnerability index (average 0.01 points lower in THV; P <0.001) between groups. THVs had comparable patient satisfaction to in-person visits. Non-White patients, Hispanics, and those with public insurance had lower ratings for both in-person visits and THVs and had more technical difficulties during their THV.

CONCLUSIONS

Telehealth is a viable method of care for a range of pediatric OSM conditions, providing a similar quality of care as in-person visits with a greater geographic reach. However, in its current format, reduced disparities were not observed in pediatric OSM THVs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Joint and Functional Examinations in the Orthopaedic and Traumatological Video Consultation - What is Currently Possible?

BACKGROUND

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, video consultations have gained importance in orthopaedic and traumatological departments. In current literature, different adaptations of classic joint and functional examinations have been described for the virtual examination.

METHODOLOGY

A systematic review of current literature on adaptations for the virtual joint and functional examination in orthopaedics and trauma surgery was performed over PubMed (January 2010 to April 2021). The identified examination methods were then summarised systematically according to body region and pathology. Each examination was then described in detail and depicted in an exemplary picture.

RESULTS

In total 17 articles were identified and included in the analysis. Most of the examinations employed classical examination methods which were adapted so that they could be performed by the patient independently. Everyday items were described as supporting tools. In five publications, orthopaedic examinations performed in video consultations were compared to the classical examination. Results of functional examinations showed less agreement with results of classical orthopaedic examinations when compared to inspection and ROM-testing.

CONCLUSION

Current literature offers a substantial repertoire of examination options that can be used in the orthopaedic and traumatological video consultation. The reported examinations are mostly oriented to classical orthopaedic examinations. In future digital examinations have to be validated and possibly further adapted in future.

Patient-reported outcomes during telehealth versus in-person follow-up visits for patients treated with extracorporeal shockwave therapy

BACKGROUND

The limited research describing clinical outcomes using telehealth for management of musculoskeletal conditions is primarily within orthopedic surgery care.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize differences in patient reported outcomes using telehealth compared with in-person follow-up visits in patients with Achilles tendinopathy (AT) or plantar fasciitis (PF) treated using extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT).

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Outpatient sports medicine clinic.

PATIENTS

82 patients with AT and 46 patients with PF.

INTERVENTIONS

In-person (n = 76) and telehealth (n = 52) follow-up visits.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) for AT and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) for PF as well as billing level.

RESULTS

There was significant improvement from baseline to final VISA-A (p < .01) and FAAM (p < .01) following ESWT. No significant difference existed in the proportion of patients who met the minimal clinically important difference based on in-person (71.1%) versus telehealth (71.2%) follow-up (p = .99). The in-person group demonstrated higher billing levels compared to the telehealth group (Level: 3.5 ± 0.6 vs. 2.8 ± 0.7, p < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Given no significant differences in outcomes between two modes of follow-ups, telehealth may serve as an alternative method to guide management of musculoskeletal injuries with ESWT and other procedures.

Ankle Telemedicine Planning Considerations

A virtual medical visit, also known as telemedicine or telehealth, is a valuable alternative method of providing health care to patients who do not have easy access to a hospital, or during times when limited social interaction is crucial such as our current COVID-19 pandemic. A virtual approach to evaluating musculoskeletal system ailments is particularly challenging, for diagnosis of these conditions generally rely greatly on physical examination, which may be challenging. However, a properly planned and executed telemedicine visit will yield successful results in most cases. Our aim is to produce a document with instructions and suggestions, including physical examination maneuvers, to help physicians carry out a proper virtual medical visit with patients complaining of ankle musculoskeletal problems. Virtual visits should not be thought of as a replacement for traditional face-to-face medical consultations, but rather a complementary method to provide health care when deemed appropriate. By following this guide, and tailoring it to the specific case at hand, medical providers should be able to effectively carry out a successful telemedicine consultation for musculoskeletal ailments relating to the ankle.Levels of Evidence: Level V.

Telerehabilitation is as effective as outpatient visits in the management of early osteoarthritis knee and mechanical low backache

PURPOSE

Teleconsultation services can be used to overcome the barriers imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic in providing basic orthopaedic rehabilitation services. Aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of rehabilitation provided via outpatient and teleconsultation in patients with mechanical low backache (LBA) and early osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee joint utilizing Patient-Reported Outcome Measures. The satisfaction level of patients receiving teleconsultation will also be assessed.

METHODOLOGY

This study was a hospital-based prospective observational study. The study's participants were divided into two groups (Outpatient and Teleconsultation, respectively), and each group was further divided into two subgroups of 100 participants each (Knee-pain subgroup 1; LBA subgroup 2). SF-12 questionnaire, visual analogue scale (VAS) score for pain, and functional outcome scores (KOOS score for knee pain and the modified Oswestry Disability Index-MODI for LBA) were assessed at initial presentation and 6 months follow-up. Participants' satisfaction for teleconsultation service was assessed at final follow-up by 5 points Likert scale (5, very satisfied; 1, very dissatisfied).

RESULTS

Mean consultation time was significantly longer in the outpatient group (p < 0.001). No statistically significant difference in the VAS score, KOOS score (58.0 ± 7.6 vs. 57.8 ± 9.2; p = 0.893), and MODI Score (24.7 ± 13.3 vs. 27.4 ± 12.4; p = 0.128) between the corresponding subgroups of the two groups at final follow-up. Eighty-seven percentage of the participants were satisfied (Likert score ≥ 4) with the teleconsultation services.

CONCLUSION

Teleconsultation is equally effective to that as face-to-face outpatient consultation in the rehabilitation of patients with early OA knee and mechanical LBA.

LEVEL OF STUDY

Level 2, Prospective comparative study.

High Rate of Patient Satisfaction with Either Telemedicine or Traditional Office-Based Follow-Up Visit After Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine if any differences exist in patient satisfaction with office-based visits versus telemedicine visits following arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Methods: Patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopy were prospectively enrolled for 1 year. Patient demographic and clinical data (including complication events) and second postoperative visit satisfaction data were recorded and analyzed for statistical significance. Results: Ninety-six (n = 96) patients met inclusion criteria. Fifty-four patients (56.3%) participated in a traditional in-person office visit, and 42 participated in a video visit (43.8%). No significant differences were found between office and video appointments in terms of overall care satisfaction (9.46 ± 0.9 vs. 9.55 ± 1.0, p = 0.67). Females were significantly less satisfied with their second postoperative visit compared with males (8.3 ± 2.3 vs. 9.3 ± 1.5, p = 0.035). Significantly more females would also have preferred a traditional in person office visit compared with males (91% vs. 67%, p = 0.009). Video appointment patients spent significantly more time with their surgeon than office visit patients (57.64 mean rank vs. 41.39 mean rank, p = 0.003). Discussion: Video visit patients required significantly less time overall for their visit and spent significantly more time with their surgeon, although did not demonstrate differences in satisfaction.

Digitization of Follow-Up Care in Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery With Video Consultations: Health Economic Evaluation Study From a Health Provider's Perspective

BACKGROUND

Recommendations for health care digitization as issued with the Riyadh Declaration led to an uptake in telemedicine to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. Evaluations based on clinical data are needed to support stakeholders' decision-making on the long-term implementation of digital health.

OBJECTIVE

This health economic evaluation aims to provide the first German analysis of the suitability of video consultations in the follow-up care of patients in orthopedic and trauma surgery, investigate the financial impact on hospital operations and personnel costs, and provide a basis for decisions on digitizing outpatient care.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized controlled trial that evaluated video consultations versus face-to-face consultations in the follow-up care of patients in orthopedic and trauma surgery at a German university hospital. We recruited 60 patients who had previously been treated conservatively or surgically for various knee or shoulder injuries. A digital health app and a browser-based software were used to conduct video consultations. The suitability of telemedicine was assessed using the Telemedicine Satisfaction Questionnaire and the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. Economic analyses included average time spent by physician per consultation, associated personnel costs and capacities for additional treatable patients, and the break-even point for video consultation software fees.

RESULTS

After 4 withdrawals in each arm, data from a total of 52 patients (telemedicine group: n=26; control group: n=26) were used for our analyses. In the telemedicine group, 77% (20/26) of all patients agreed that telemedicine provided for their health care needs, and 69% (18/26) found telemedicine an acceptable way to receive health care services. In addition, no significant difference was found in the change of patient utility between groups after 3 months (mean 0.02, SD 0.06 vs mean 0.07, SD 0.17; P=.35). Treatment duration was significantly shorter in the intervention group (mean 8.23, SD 4.45 minutes vs mean 10.92, SD 5.58 minutes; P=.02). The use of telemedicine saved 25% (€2.14 [US $2.35]/€8.67 [US $9.53]) in personnel costs and increased the number of treatable patients by 172 annually, assuming 2 hours of video consultations per week. Sensitivity analysis for scaling up video consultations to 10% of the hospital's outpatient cases resulted in personnel cost savings of €73,056 (US $ 80,275.39) for a senior physician. A total of 23 video consultations per month were required to recoup the software fees of telemedicine through reduced personnel costs (break-even point ranging from 12-38 in the sensitivity analysis).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study supports stakeholders' decision-making on the long-term implementation of digital health by demonstrating that video consultations in the follow-up care of patients in orthopedic and trauma surgery result in cost savings and productivity gains for clinics with no negative impact on patient utility.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00023445; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00023445.

Physician experiences with teleconsultations amidst conflict in Sudan

The current conflict in Sudan severely hinders the accessibility of health services across the country. To address this, several initiatives were proposed including offering services using teleconsultations. This study aimed to assess Sudanese doctors' teleconsultation experience, perception, and concerns during the recent conflict. This cross-sectional survey focused on Sudanese medical officers, residents, specialists, and consultants living inside or outside the country having a practice license from the Sudan Medical Council and conducting teleconsultations with Sudanese patients during the conflict period. The questionnaire was distributed to personal and professional contacts and via social media platforms in the English language among doctors who provided teleconsultation during the conflict. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences software version 26. The study enrolled 2463 clinicians from 17 different specialties, and females represented more than half the sample (56.8%). Internal medicine was the most frequent specialty (36.1%) and the majority (68.7%) of clinicians had less than 5 years of work experience. Voice call was the most frequent platform (50.1%) used for teleconsultation during the conflict and had the highest convenience score (p < 0.01), whereas messaging platforms had the lowest score. Most clinicians (73.3%) agreed that teleconsultations created a trusted patient-physician relationship and provided good-quality care (61.8%). However, 85.1% highlighted the importance of physical touch in medical practice. Clinicians were concerned that incomplete information (81.4%), missed diagnosis (76.8%), medicolegal problems (71.0%), and prescription errors (68.4%) could arise with teleconsultations. Most respondents (70.7%) emphasized the importance of continuing to offer teleconsultation even after the war abated. In conclusion, physicians who participated in the current study agreed that teleconsultation provided quality care even in this dire crisis in Sudan. Based on our study findings, we recommend upscaling telemedicine interventions including teleconsultations at the national level. This would require unified coordination efforts of a wide mix of stakeholders to address concerns identified in the current study.

Participatory development of a 3D telemedicine system during COVID: The future of remote consultations

BACKGROUND

The COVID pandemic brought the need for more realistic remote consultations into focus. 2D Telemedicine solutions fail to replicate the fluency or authenticity of in-person consultations. This research reports on an international collaboration on the participatory development and first validated clinical use of a novel, real-time 360-degree 3D Telemedicine system worldwide. The development of the system - leveraging Microsoft's Holoportation™ communication technology - commenced at the Canniesburn Plastic Surgery Unit, Glasgow, in March 2020.

METHODS

The research followed the VR CORE guidelines on the development of digital health trials, placing patients at the heart of the development process. This consisted of three separate studies - a clinician feedback study (23 clinicians, Nov-Dec 2020), a patient feedback study (26 patients, Jul-Oct 2021), and a cohort study focusing on safety and reliability (40 patients, Oct 2021-Mar 2022). "Lose, Keep, and Change" feedback prompts were used to engage patients in the development process and guide incremental improvements.

RESULTS

Participatory testing demonstrated improved patient metrics with 3D in comparison to 2D Telemedicine, including validated measures of satisfaction (p<0.0001), realism or 'presence' (Single Item Presence scale, p<0.0001), and quality (Telehealth Usability Questionnaire, p = 0.0002). The safety and clinical concordance (95%) of 3D Telemedicine with a face-to-face consultation were equivalent or exceeded estimates for 2D Telemedicine.

CONCLUSIONS

One of the ultimate goals of telemedicine is for the quality of remote consultations to get closer to the experience of face-to-face consultations. These data provide the first evidence that Holoportation™ communication technology brings 3D Telemedicine closer to this goal than a 2D equivalent.

Improving health literacy using the power of digital communications to achieve better health outcomes for patients and practitioners

Digital communication tools have demonstrated significant potential to improve health literacy which ultimately leads to better health outcomes. In this article, we examine the power of digital communication tools such as mobile health apps, telemedicine and online health information resources to promote health and digital literacy. We outline evidence that digital tools facilitate patient education, self-management and empowerment possibilities. In addition, digital technology is optimising the potential for improved clinical decision-making, treatment options and communication among providers. We also explore the challenges and limitations associated with digital health literacy, including issues related to access, reliability and privacy. We propose leveraging digital communication tools is key to optimising engagement to enhance health literacy across demographics leading to transformation of healthcare delivery and driving better outcomes for all.

SuRxgWell: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial of telemedicine-based digital cognitive behavioral intervention for high anxiety and depression among patients undergoing elective hip and knee arthroplasty surgery

BACKGROUND

Mood disorders (anxiety, depression), sleep disorders, and catastrophizing lead to increased post-operative pain perception, increase in postoperative opioid consumption, decreased engagement with physical activity, and increased resource utilization in surgical patients. Psychosocial disorders significantly affect postoperative outcome. Unfortunately, studies focused on perioperative psychological assessment and treatment are scarce. We propose to test whether digital cognitive behavioral intervention (dCBI) can help surgical patients. dCBI such as RxWell™ is a proven treatment for mood disorders in medical patients such as reducing depression in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. We hypothesize that RxWell™ will also be effective in surgical patients. This study aims to test whether RxWell™ can improve preoperative mood disorders and subsequently reduce postoperative pain and opioid requirement in patients scheduled for primary total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA, TKA). We named the trial as the SuRxgWell trial.

METHODS

This is a randomized, controlled trial that will enroll primary and unilateral THA or TKA patients with anxiety and/or depression symptoms before surgery to receive the SuRxgWell dCBI program and investigate its impact on postoperative outcomes including postoperative pain, anxiety, depression, sleep disorder, and catastrophizing. After signing an informed consent, subjects will be screened using the PROMIS questionnaires, and subjects with a T-score of ≥ 60 on the short Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) 4a Anxiety and/or short PROMIS 4a Depression questionnaires will be randomized to either usual care (control group) or the cognitive behavioral intervention, RxWell™, plus usual care (intervention group). The control group will receive information on how to locate tools to address anxiety and depression, whereas the intervention group will have access to SuRxgWell 1 month prior to surgery and up to 3 months after surgery. The allocation will be 3:1 (intervention to control). Investigators will be blinded, but research coordinators approaching patients and research subjects will not. The primary outcome will be day of surgery anxiety or depression symptoms measured with the PROMIS Short Form v1.0 -Anxiety 4a/Depression and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Measure (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8). Secondary end points include measuring other health-related quality of life outcomes including sleep disturbance, fatigue, ability to participate in social roles, pain interference, cognitive function, pain catastrophizing, and physical function. Other secondary outcomes include collecting data about preoperative and postoperative pain scores, and pain medication usage, and orthopedic functional recovery at baseline, day of surgery, and 1, 2, and 3 months after the surgery with the Pain Catastrophizing Scale, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Hip injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS). In addition, subjects will be asked to complete a GAD-7 and PHQ-8 questionnaires bi-weekly (via the RxWell™ app for the interventional group or REDCAP for the control group). Data about postsurgical complications, and resource utilization will also be recorded. We will also receive monthly reports measuring the usage and engagement of RxWell use for each participant randomized to that arm. The primary hypotheses will be assessed with intention-to-treat estimates, and differences in primary outcome will be tested using independent two sample t-tests. This trial is registered to the ClinicalTrials.gov database (NCT05658796) and supported by the DAPM, UPMC Health Plan, and the NIH.

DISCUSSION

Our trial will evaluate the feasibility of digital cognitive behavioral intervention as a perioperative tool to improve anxiety and depression before and after major orthopedic surgery in comparison to education. If digital cognitive behavioral intervention proves to be effective, this might have important clinical implications, reducing the incidence of chronic postsurgical pain and improving outcomes.

Novel Tools to Approach and Measure Outcomes in Patients with Fractures

Upper extremity fractures are prevalent and pose a great burden to patients and society. In the US alone, the annual incidence of upper extremity fractures is 67.6 fractures per 10,000 persons. While the majority of patients with upper extremity fractures demonstrate satisfactory outcomes when treated appropriately (the details of which are discussed in prior articles), the importance of follow-up and outcome measurement cannot be understated. Outcome measurement allows for accountability and improvement in clinical outcomes and research. The purpose of this article is to describe recent advances in methods and tools for assessing clinical and research outcomes in hand and upper extremity care. Three specific advances that are broadly changing the landscape of follow-up care of our patients include: 1) telemedicine, 2) patient-reported outcome measurement, and 3) wearables/remote patient monitoring.

Rapid Adoption of Telemedicine Increases Opioid Prescribing in Orthopedic Surgery

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic led to health care practitioners utilizing new technologies to deliver health care, including telemedicine. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of rapidly proliferative use of video visits on opioid prescribing to orthopedic patients at a large academic health system that had existing procedure-specific opioid prescribing guidelines. Methods: This IRB-exempt study examined 651 opioid prescriptions written to patients who had video (visual and audio), telephone (audio only), or in-person encounters at our institution from March 1 to June 1, 2020 and compared them with 963 prescriptions written during the same months in 2019. Prescriptions were converted into daily milligram morphine equivalents (MMEs) to facilitate direct comparison. Chi-square testing was used to compare categorical data, whereas analysis of variance and Mann-Whitney tests were used to compare numerical data between groups. Statistical significance was set at <0.05. Results: Six hundred fifty-one of 1,614 prescriptions analyzed (40.3%) occurred during the pandemic. Patients prescribed opioids during video visits were prescribed 53.3 ± 37 MME, significantly higher than in-person (p = 0.002) or audio visits (p < 0.001) before or during the pandemic. Prepandemic, significantly higher MME were prescribed for in-person versus audio only visits (41.6 ± 89 vs. 30.2 ± 28 MME; p = 0.026); during the pandemic, there was no difference between these groups (p = 0.91). Significantly higher MME were prescribed by Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates versus MD or DO prescribers for both time periods (51.3 ± 109 vs. 27.9 ± 42 MME; p < 0.001; 42.9 ± 70 vs. 28.2 ± 42 MME; p < 0.001). Conclusion: During crisis and with new technology, we should be vigilant about prescribing of opioid analgesics. Despite well-established protocols, patients received significantly higher MME through video than for other encounter types, including in-person encounters. In addition, significantly higher MME were prescribed by mid-level prescribers compared with DOs or MDs. Institutions should ensure these prescribers are involved during creation of opioid prescribing protocols after orthopedic surgery.

The safety of telemedicine clinics as an alternative to in-person preoperative assessment for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with benign gallbladder disease: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The telemedicine clinic for follow up after minor surgical procedures in general surgery is now ubiquitously considered a standard of care. However, this method of consultation is not the mainstay for preoperative assessment and counselling of patients for common surgical procedures such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of assessing and counselling patients in the telemedicine clinic without a physical encounter for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who were booked for laparoscopic cholecystectomy for benign gallbladder disease via general surgery telemedicine clinics from March 2020 to November 2021. The primary outcome was the cancellation rate on the day of surgery. The secondary outcomes were complication and readmission rates, with Clavein-Dindo grade III or greater deemed clinically significant. We performed a subgroup analysis on the cases cancelled on the day of surgery in an attempt to identify key reasons for cancellation following virtual clinic assessment.

RESULTS

We identified 206 cases booked for laparoscopic cholecystectomy from telemedicine clinics. 7% of patients had a cancellation on the day of surgery. Only one such cancellation was deemed avoidable as it may have been prevented by a face-to-face assessment. Severe postoperative adverse events (equal to or greater than Clavien-Dindo grade III) were observed in 1% of patients, and required re-intervention. 30-day readmission rate was 11%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our series showed that it is safe and feasible to assess and counsel patients for laparoscopic cholecystectomy remotely with a minimal cancellation rate on the day of operation. Further work is needed to understand the effect of remote consultations on patient satisfaction, its environmental impact, and possible benefits to healthcare economics to support its routine use in general surgery.

Interobserver Agreement and Satisfaction With the use of Telemedicine for Evaluating low Back Pain: A Primary, Observational, Cross-Sectional, Analytical Study

STUDY DESIGN

A primary, observational, cross-sectional, analytical study.

OBJECTIVE

The development of a framework for systematic telemedicine (TM) for orthopedic physicians in frequent clinical care may increase agreement in diagnosis and satisfaction among users of TM. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the agreement in the diagnosis of low back pain (LBP) between TM, systematized by a self-completed digital questionnaire, and face-to-face (FF) care in patients with LBP.

METHODS

This study included adults up to 75 years of age with LBP for more than 6 weeks. They were evaluated at 2 independent time points (TM and FF) by different orthopedists with 3 different levels of expertise. Professionals evaluated the sample without prior knowledge of the diagnosis, and each orthopedist provided a diagnosis. Diagnostic agreement was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were the duration of the visit and satisfaction among healthcare professionals.

RESULTS

A total of 168 participants were eligible, of whom 126 sought care through TM and 122 sought FF care (mean age, 47 years [range, 18-75 years]; 66.4% women). The agreement among professionals regarding the diagnosis was moderate (kappa = .585, P = .001). TM was faster than FF (11.9 minutes (standard deviation = 4.1) vs 18.6 (SD = 6.9), P < .001). Professional satisfaction was higher among spine specialists than among orthopedic residents and orthopedists who were not specialists in spine surgery.

CONCLUSION

Agreement in diagnosis was moderate for TM, with a 30% shorter visit duration than FF. Satisfaction varied by professional expertise and was higher among spine specialists than among professionals with other expertise.

Technical issues occur but are infrequent and have little impact on physiotherapist-delivered videoconferencing consultations for knee osteoarthritis: A descriptive study

INTRODUCTION

Clinicians often report technical issues as a barrier to adopting videoconferencing service models. This descriptive study nested within a randomised controlled trial investigated the frequency, nature and impact of technical issues during video consultations.

METHODS

Physiotherapists (n = 15) underwent training to deliver knee osteoarthritis care focussed on education, strengthening and physical activity. In the randomised controlled trial, participants received five physiotherapy consultations either in-person or via videoconferencing (via Zoom) over 3-months; consultations were recorded and physiotherapists documented technical difficulties. In this study, available notes were audited (n = 169 initial and n = 147 final consultations) and nature and frequency of technical issues coded. Based on whether the clinician reported technical difficulties, three subgroups were created for analysis 1) in-person, 2) videoconferencing without technical issues, 3) videoconferencing with technical issues. Forty participants were randomly selected for each subgroup (n = 120). Duration of consultation components (set-up and introduction, assessment, exercise, physical activity, education and wrap-up), total consultation duration and duration of technical issues were compared across subgroups using one-way multivariate analyses of variance with mean differences (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Technical issues were documented in 37% (initial) and 19% (final) of video consultations. Problems with audio/video were most frequent, occurring in 36-21% (initial) and 18-24% (final) consultations. Audio/video problems were predominantly experienced during set-up, but did not significantly increase videoconferencing consultation duration compared to in-person consultation duration (MD (95% CI) 0.72 (-3.57 to 5.01) minutes).

DISCUSSION

While technical issues with videoconferencing consultations frequently occur, they are typically minor, transient and resolved quickly.

Telehealth for a better service delivery in orthopaedic surgery

Telehealth has the potential to change the way we approach patient care. From virtual consenting to reducing carbon emissions, costs, and waiting times, it is a powerful tool in our clinical armamentarium. There is mounting evidence that remote diagnostic evaluation and decision-making have reached an acceptable level of accuracy and can safely be adopted in orthopaedic surgery. Furthermore, patients' and surgeons' satisfaction with virtual appointments are comparable to in-person consultations. Challenges to the widespread use of telehealth should, however, be acknowledged and include the cost of installation, training, maintenance, and accessibility. It is also vital that clinicians are conscious of the medicolegal and ethical considerations surrounding the medium and adhere strictly to the relevant data protection legislation and storage framework. It remains to be seen how organizations harness the full spectrum of the technology to facilitate effective patient care.

Telemedicine Satisfaction and Preferences in an Orthopaedic Spine Clinic

The use of telemedicine has expanded amid the COVID-19 pandemic and office closures and cancellation of elective surgeries early in the pandemic helped propagated its use. Previous studies have described the feasibility of telemedicine, however, little has been reported on patient perception and preferences within orthopaedics. The objective of this study was to evaluate satisfaction and preferences of telemedicine from the perspective of patients within an orthopaedic spine clinic. A cross-sectional, anonymous survey was implemented as a prospective quality improvement initiative. The survey was sent to patients who had an in-office or telemedicine visit with a provider in our orthopaedic spine clinic. Statistical analysis was performed on the results of the survey. The survey was sent to 1129 patients and a total of 316 patients responded. Twenty-one percent of respondents had a telemedicine appointment. There was no difference in satisfaction among groups (P = .288) and those with telemedicine appointments were more likely to have had a previous experience with this type of visit (P = .004) and were more inclined to use it in the future (P < .001). Patients preferred telemedicine because of the ability to get earlier appointments (P < .001) and the convenience of the visits (P < .001). Patients preferred in-office visits because they received hands-on physical exams (P = .003) or imaging (P = .041). Telemedicine is a viable alternative to in-office appointments for spine patients, as evidenced by similar levels of patient satisfaction. Sooner appointments and convenience are attractive elements of telemedicine visits, while the desire for physical examination remains a barrier to adoption in this population.

Telemedicine Effectiveness in the First Elective Orthopedic Care Compared to a Standard Face-to-face Visit

Objective  The study aimed to compare whether the diagnoses of orthopedic diseases at telemedicine (TM) consultations are the same as those established at face-to-face visits. Method  Primary, observational, prospective, analytical study, with subjects from the local municipal network who were referred to the orthopedics outpatient clinic from May to June 2021. Subjects underwent two assessments: a telemedicine (TM) consultation and a face-to-face (FF) visit. Two different physicians attended to the patients and established a diagnosis. The physician performing the FF visit was not aware of the previous diagnoses. We compared the diagnoses obtained at both modalities to assess the degree of similarity. In addition, we determined the time required for consultations and the degree of satisfaction of the physicians. Results  We evaluated 43 patients and seven physicians, totaling 44 TM and 43 FF visits. The diagnostic similarity index was 81.4%. TM consultations were shorter (mean time, 4.8 minutes) than FF visits. Physicians were less satisfied with TM in the four criteria evaluated (respective scores of 79.1, 23.3, 46.6, and 37.2). Conclusion  TM consultations have a diagnoses agreement higher than 80% compared with FF visits. On the other hand, TM consultations were faster, and physicians were less satisfied with them in comparison with FF visits.

Absorbable Sutures and Telemedicine for Patients Undergoing Trigger Finger Release

Background In the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic, the development of care processes that reduce the need for in-person clinic visits while maintaining low complication rates is needed. The purpose of this study is to assess the outcomes of patients undergoing trigger finger release with various suture and follow-up visit types to assess the feasibility of shifting towards telemedicine-based follow-up protocols. Methods A retrospective review of 329 patients undergoing trigger finger release was performed. Patients were classified based on whether or not they received in-office follow-ups; whether they received absorbable or non-absorbable sutures; and whether they were treated using a telemedicine and absorbable suture protocol or other combination of sutures and follow-ups. Univariate statistics were performed to compare outcomes between groups. Results Patients who did not undergo in-office follow-up were more likely to experience residual stiffness or contracture (11.4% vs. 4.1%; p=0.033) but had no significant differences in 30-day reoperation, emergency department (ED) returns, wound complaints, and Quick DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) scores. When comparing chromic absorbable sutures to non-absorbable sutures, those with absorbable sutures were significantly more likely to have telemedicine visits but were also more likely to have wound complaints (17.9% vs. 8.5%; p=0.022). There was no significant difference in two- and six-week pain scores, 30-day reoperation, ED returns, residual symptoms, and Quick DASH scores. When comparing patients treated using the absorbable suture and telemedicine protocol with those receiving any other type of suture and postoperative follow-up, no significant differences in any postoperative clinical outcome measures were observed. Conclusion The results of this study demonstrate that the use of an absorbable suture and telemedicine protocol for patients undergoing trigger finger release yields similar outcomes as traditional methods of care. However, the use of absorbable sutures may result in decreased patient satisfaction with surgical wound healing.

Perception of telemedicine among orthopedic surgeons and patients and an analysis of the factors governing its overall efficacy: Results from the COVID-19 pandemic

Background

Providing health-care services through telemedicine for musculoskeletal ailments after the first wave of COVID-19 may help reduce the burden on the already-strained health-care system.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were (1) to assess the satisfaction levels of orthopedic surgeons and patients with respect to telemedicine and (2) to determine the factors governing the overall efficacy of telemedicine consultations.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to ascertain the perception of telemedicine (both doctors and patients) under the following domains - (1) information provided and ease of usage; (2) doctor-patient communication; (3) ease of prescribing and understanding treatment; and (4) audio-video quality of the consultation. The influence of these factors on overall satisfaction was determined using multinomial logistic regression analysis.

Results

Of the 204 patients and 27 surgeons who completed the questionnaire, 77% (patients) and 89% (surgeons) were satisfied with the overall efficacy of telemedicine. Maximum satisfaction was noted with the ease of obtaining a telemedicine appointment (168/204). 68.6% of patients further stated they would prefer future visits virtually. While all four factors were found to have a significant correlation (P < 0.001) with the overall efficacy of teleconsultation services, the quality of the telephone call (odds ratio [OR] =90.15) and good doctor-patient communication (OR = 15.5) were found to be the most important of the lot.

Conclusion

Our study not only demonstrates the high degree of satisfaction with telehealth services but is also able to pinpoint the areas where improvement is needed to enhance the overall experience with this technology.

Telemedicine in Spine Surgery: Global Perspectives and Practices

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional, anonymous, international survey.

OBJECTIVES

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the rapid adoption of telemedicine in spine surgery. This study sought to determine the extent of adoption and global perspectives on telemedicine in spine surgery.

METHODS

All members of AO Spine International were emailed an anonymous survey covering the participant's experiences with and perceptions of telemedicine. Descriptive statistics were used to depict responses. Responses were compared among regions.

RESULTS

485 spine surgeons participated in the survey. Telemedicine usage rose from <10.0% to >39.0% of all visits. A majority of providers (60.5%) performed at least one telemedicine visit. The format of "telemedicine" varied widely by region: European (50.0%) and African (45.2%) surgeons were more likely to use phone calls, whereas North (66.7%) and South American (77.0%) surgeons more commonly used video (P < 0.001). North American providers used telemedicine the most during COVID-19 (>60.0% of all visits). 81.9% of all providers "agreed/strongly agreed" telemedicine was easy to use. Respondents tended to "agree" that imaging review, the initial appointment, and postoperative care could be performed using telemedicine. Almost all (95.4%) surgeons preferred at least one in-person visit prior to the day of surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our study noted significant geographical differences in the rate of telemedicine adoption and the platform of telemedicine utilized. The results suggest a significant increase in telemedicine utilization, particularly in North America. Spine surgeons found telemedicine feasible for imaging review, initial visits, and follow-up visits although the vast majority still preferred at least one in-person preoperative visit.

Hand Trauma Virtual Clinics Prove Effective During the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

Due to the devastating and far-reaching impact of the novel COVID-19 pandemic, hospital resources have been redirected to protect patients and health care staff, thereby vastly reducing the capacity for outpatient follow-up within a busy Plastic Surgery and Hand Trauma center. Through the use of telephone and video technology, virtual clinics were rapidly introduced to reduce hospital footfall.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study analyzed patient experiences in virtual and traditional face-to-face clinics through the month of April 2020, from the second week of the government-imposed lockdown. A 5-point Visit-Specific Satisfaction Questionnaire was used to subsequently collect patients' feedback regarding their appointments.

RESULTS

A total of 107 hand injury-related follow-up appointments were recorded during the 4-week period. Sixty (56.0%) appointments were performed as a virtual consultation, and 47 (43.9%) face-to-face consultations were carried out on site. It was possible to discharge 43.3% from the virtual clinic group and 57.4% from the face-to-face group. We identified no significant difference in patient satisfaction (P = .368, Mann-Whitney U test) between the 2 cohorts.

CONCLUSION

Virtual clinics appear to be safe and effective for the follow-up of patients with traumatic hand injuries during the COVID-19 pandemic. This approach may prove beneficial in terms of workforce organization, reducing waiting times, and providing an alternative for patients unable to attend physical appointments.

Telemedicine in orthopaedics and trauma surgery during the first year of COVID pandemic: a systematic review

PURPOSE

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine in orthopaedics and trauma surgery had mostly developed for joint arthroplasty, fracture management, and general pre- and postoperative care including teleradiology. With the corona-outbreak, telemedicine was applied on a broad scale to prevent assemblage and to guarantee access to medical care protecting critical areas. The purpose of the present study was to give an overview of the spectrum of clinical applications and the efficacy of telemedicine in orthopaedic and trauma surgery as published in times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

All published studies investigating the application of telemedicine related to orthopaedics and trauma during the COVID-19 pandemic were accessed and screened for suitability. The primary outcome of interest was the efficacy of telemedicine in various clinical applications. The secondary outcome of interest was the spectrum of different applications in which telemedicine applications were investigated.

RESULTS

The literature search resulted in 1047 articles. After the removal of duplicates, 894 articles were screened of which 31 finally met the inclusion criteria. Dimensions that were described by studies in the literature to have positive effects were preoperative patient optimisation, the usefulness of telemedicine to correctly diagnose a condition, conservative treatment, willingness to and feasibility for telemedicine in patients and doctors, and postoperative/post-trauma care improvement. The efficacy of telemedicine applications or interventions thereby strongly varied and seemed to depend on the exact study design and the research question addressed.

CONCLUSION

Various successful applications of telemedicine have already been reported in orthopaedics and trauma surgery, with a strong increase in scientific output during the COVID-19 years 2020-2021. Whether the advantages of such an approach will lead to a relevant implementation of telemedicine in everyday clinical practice should be monitored after the COVID-19 pandemic.

DOES THE APPLICATION OF CONVERSION FRACTURE-TREATMENT METHOD AND THE TECHNOLOGY OF TELEMEDICAL MOVEMENT MONITORING AFFECT THE LONG-TERM RESULTS OF THE TREATMENT OF VICTIMS WITH MULTIPLE GUNSHOT LONG BONES FRACTURES?

OBJECTIVE

The aim: To improve the results of treatment of patients with multiple gunshot fractures of long bones by developing the technology of fixation method conversion with combined autoplasty and postoperative telemedical control (loading +ROM (range of motion).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and methods: Two comparison groups were formed: the main (84 patients) and the control (62 patients). For the patients of this group all elements of the restorative treatment system were used (DCO, extrafocal osteosynthesis (including hinged), ultrasonic cavitation, NPWT, biochemical indicators of blood, conversion technology with usage of regenerative technologies, rehabilitation program) and telemedical control with applications (ROM+weight bearing). The control group (62 patients) - patients who received almost the same treatment, but only autoplasty with cancellous bone was included for bone plastics an telemedical counseling were not used.

RESULTS

Results: 1 year after the final method of fixation, it was established that the relative indicators were also lower in the patients of the main group, and a statistically significant difference was found in the indicator of the frequency of contracture formation, which may indicate the timely establishment of low dynamics in increasing the amplitude of movements and appropriate response (redress, arthrolysis, tenolysis).

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: Implementation of telemedicine and combined plastic surgery of bone defects in the restorative treatment system reduce the frequency of major complications that affect the objective result, affect better physical and mental health indicators during the observation period of 12 months.

Will videoteleconsultation have been just a stopgap in French orthopedics-traumatology? A national survey of 280 surgeons

INTRODUCTION

There have been no studies assessing French orthopedic surgeons' satisfaction with video and telephone consultations. These were encouraged during the coronavirus pandemic. We therefore performed a prospective study to assess (1) the profile of physicians using videoteleconsultation (VTC) during the pandemic and factors influencing use, (2) satisfaction with VTC, and (3) the pros, cons and prospects of VTC.

HYPOTHESIS

The study hypothesis was that VTC in orthopedics-traumatology is sufficiently satisfying to be used in everyday practice outside of pandemic contexts.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A French nationwide survey was conducted in the form of an assessment of professional practices. Orthopedic and traumatology surgeons were sent a digital questionnaire, using the mailing lists of some of the French professional and scientific societies, with an estimate of 2000 practitioners who could be reached. The survey concerned use of VTC, modalities and satisfaction and the practitioner's profile. On the basis of the questionnaire responses, a Net Promoter Score (NPS) was calculated, evaluating the number (from -100 to +100) of respondents likely to recommend VTC.

RESULTS

In total 280 of the estimated 2000 practitioners who were contacted (14.0%) responded. Their mean age was 47.7±10.0years (range: 30-84years). The rate of use of VTC rose from 8.9% (n=25/280) before the pandemic to 55.3% (n=155/280) during it. In the 155 practitioners who had used VTC, NPS was -46.4. Only 51% (n=79/155) were in favor of continuing VTCs outside of pandemic settings. Likewise, 50.3% (n=78/155) reported that clinical examination was more time-consuming via VTC than in face-to-face consultation, and 57.4% (n=89/155) said the same about visualizing complementary examinations. Finally, 98.1% (n=152/155) found VTC less satisfying than face-to-face consultation for clinical examination, and only 18.1% (n=28/155) scheduled surgery after VTC alone.

CONCLUSION

To date in French orthopedics-traumatology, VTC does not satisfy surgeons, with its virtual rather than physical clinical examination; even so, it offers a solution in pandemic settings.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV; prospective study without control group.

Video Consultations and Their Utilization by Orthopedic and Trauma Surgeons During the COVID-19 Pandemic. A Go-To Technology in the Future or Just a Stopgap?

BACKGROUND

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the contact restrictions imposed for protection against infection have limited the options for direct medical therapy. Considering this, the present study aimed to evaluate the utility of the rarely used online video consultation as an alternative treatment form for orthopedic and trauma surgeons and analyze its potential for future use.

METHODS

During calendar week 24 in the year 2020, 215 specialists in orthopedics and orthopedics and trauma surgery in the city and greater region of Hanover, Germany, were enrolled in a questionnaire-based evaluation of their use of video consultations. The analysis consisted of 125 completed questionnaires, which corresponded to a return rate of 58.1%. The completed questionnaires recorded the number of users, frequency of utilization, and advantages and disadvantages of online treatment, as well as provided an assessment of the future use of telemedicine and video consultations. Furthermore, we considered the necessary requirements for using video consultations and for continuing their use in the future as well as the potential of performing online consultations given that all pertinent conditions are fulfilled.

RESULTS

Among the 125 respondents, only 17 (13.6%) had already experienced video consultations, all starting during the COVID-19 pandemic, but with very low frequencies (maximum of one-three times per week). Despite the limitations, the advantages included helping patients receive the required treatments and reducing the need for travel. However, the respondents mentioned that there were several disadvantages due to diagnostic limitations: there was no direct examination, primary consultations were restricted, and possibilities of consultations and explanations were reduced. Of the 108 (86.4%) respondents who had not experienced video consultations, only 9 (8.3%) had specifically planned to conduct online consultation, whereas 57 (52.8%) had no such intention in the foreseeable future and 42 (38.9%) were undecided on this point. They stated diagnostic limitations because of the lack of direct examination (44/77.2%) and the indispensable personal contact with the patient (30/52.6%) as main counter-arguments. According to all the respondents, the main requirements for the implementation of video consultations included establishment of proper technology (81.6%), adequate remuneration (61.6%), legal certainty (58.4%), fast and unbureaucratic support for installation and in case of problems (51.2%), and a manageable bureaucracy during the initial period (44.8%).

CONCLUSION

Video consultations and telemedicine in general undoubtedly have advantages, primarily concerning the protection from infection and contact restrictions, which are increasingly requested by patients. However, the collected data indicate that this approach may remain less important than personal consultations in the field of orthopedics and trauma surgery. As suggested by available data, this does not apply to other fields such as psychotherapy or general medicine.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sports Medicine Patient Care

The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated new practices in sports medicine patient care. Telehealth has been validated as a reliable tool for consultations and physical examinations and increases access to care in a cost-efficient manner. Social distancing and avoiding team members who have tested positive are the most effective ways to reduce spread. For screening, daily self-reported symptom checklists and fever monitoring help identify potentially infected athletes who should be instructed to isolate and seek care. Polymerase chain-reaction (PCR) testing for the virus via nasopharyngeal swab is not recommended for screening and should be reserved for symptomatic individuals with fever, cough, or shortness of breath. Face masks and personal protective equipment (PPE) may be beneficial in high-risk settings, but there is little evidence to support use in athletic populations. Median return to play after COVID-19 in elite athletes has been reported as 18 days (range: 12 to 30), with 27% not fully available at 28 days. Chest pain at diagnosis was the only symptom associated with time loss longer than 28 days. Finally, canceled competitions or time loss results in grief, stress, and frustration for athletes, as well as loss of a social support network and routine training regimens. Mental health support services may be indicated.

Despite Equivalent Clinical Outcomes, Patients Report Less Satisfaction With Telerehabilitation Versus Standard In-Office Rehabilitation After Arthroscopic Meniscectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose

To evaluate functional outcomes and satisfaction in patients who underwent telerehabilitation (telerehab) compared with in-person rehabilitation after arthroscopic meniscectomy.

Methods

A randomized-controlled trial was conducted including patients scheduled to undergo arthroscopic meniscectomy for meniscal injury by 1 of 5 fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeons between September 2020 and October 2021. Patients were randomized to receive telerehab, defined as exercises and stretches provided by trained physical therapists over a synchronous face-to-face video visit or in-person rehabilitation for their postoperative course. International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form (IKDC) score and satisfaction metrics were collected at baseline and 3 months postoperatively.

Results

Analysis was conducted on 60 patients with 3-month follow-up outcomes. There were no significant differences in IKDC scores between groups at baseline (P = .211) and 3 months' postoperatively (P = .065). Patients were more likely to report being satisfied with their rehabilitation group 73% vs. 100% (P = .044) if there were in the in-person group. Satisfaction differed significantly between the 2 groups at the end of their rehabilitation course, and only 64% of those in the telerehab group would elect to undergo telerehab again for future indications. Furthermore, they believed that future rehabilitation would benefit from a hybrid model.

Conclusions

Telerehab showed no difference versus traditional in-person rehabilitation in terms of functional outcomes up to 3 months after arthroscopic meniscectomy. However, patients were less satisfied with telerehab.

Level of Evidence

I, randomized controlled trial.

Do Americans Lacking a Local Orthopaedic Surgeon Have Adequate Broadband for Telehealth?

BACKGROUND

Although telehealth holds promise in expanding access to orthopaedic surgical care, high-speed internet connectivity remains a major limiting factor for many communities. Despite persistent federal efforts to study and address the health information technology needs of patients, there is limited information regarding the current high-speed internet landscape as it relates to access to orthopaedic surgical care.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) What is the distribution of practicing orthopaedic surgeons in the United States relative to the presence of broadband internet access? (2) What geographic, demographic, and socioeconomic factors are associated with the absence of high-speed internet and access to a local orthopaedic surgeon?

METHODS

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Mapping Broadband in America interactive tool was used to determine the proportion of county residents with access to broadband-speed internet for all 3141 US counties. Data regarding the geographic distribution of orthopaedic surgeons and county-level characteristics were obtained from the 2015 Physician Compare National Downloadable File and the Area Health Resource File, respectively. The FCC mapping broadband public use files are considered the most comprehensive datasets describing high-speed internet infrastructure within the United States. The year 2015 represents the most recently available FCC data for which county-level broadband penetration estimates are available. Third-party audits of the FCC data have shown that broadband expansion has been slow over the past decade and that many large improvements have been driven by changes in the reporting methodology. Therefore, we believe the 2015 FCC data still hold relevance. The primary outcome measure was the simultaneous absence of at least 50% broadband penetration and at least one orthopaedic surgeon practicing in county limits. Statistical analyses using Kruskal-Wallis tests and multivariable logistic regression were conducted to assess for factors associated with inaccessibility to orthopaedic telehealth. All statistical tests were two-sided with a significance threshold of p < 0.05.

RESULTS

In 2015, 14% (448 of 3141) of counties were considered "low access" in that they both had no orthopaedic surgeons and possessed less than 50% broadband access. A total of 4,660,559 people lived within these low-access counties, representing approximately 1.4% (4.6 million of 320.7 million) of the US population. After controlling for potential confounding variables, such as the age, sex, income level, and educational attainment, lower population density per square mile (OR 0.92 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.90 to 0.94]; p < 0.01), a lower number of primary care physicians per 100,000 (OR 0.88 [95% CI 0.81 to 0.97]; p < 0.01), a higher unemployment level (OR 1.3 [95% CI 1.2 to 1.4]; p < 0.01), and greater number preventable hospital stays per 100,000 (OR 1.01 [95% CI 1.01 to 1.02]; p < 0.01) were associated with increased odds of being a low-access county (though the effect size of the finding was small for population density and number of primary care physicians). Stated another way, each additional person per square mile was associated with an 8% (95% CI 6% to 10%; p < 0.01) decrease in the odds of being a low-access county, and each additional percentage point of unemployment was associated with a 30% (95% CI 20% to 40%) increase in the odds of being a low-access county.

CONCLUSION

Despite the potential for telehealth programs to improve the delivery of high-quality orthopaedic surgical care, broadband internet access remains a major barrier to implementation. Until targeted investments are made to expand broadband infrastructure across the country, health systems, policymakers, and surgeon leaders must capitalize on existing federal subsidy programs, such as the lifeline or affordability connectivity initiatives, to reach unemployed patients living in economically depressed regions. The incorporation of internet access questions into clinic-based social determinants screening may facilitate the development of alternative follow-up protocols for patients unable to participate in synchronous videoconferencing.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Some orthopaedic patients lack the broadband capacity necessary for telehealth visits, in which case surgeons may pursue alternative methods of follow-up such as mobile phone-based surveillance of postoperative wounds, surgical sites, and clinical symptoms.

The Efficacy of Telemedicine Versus In-Person Education for High-Risk Patients Undergoing Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

While multiple studies have demonstrated the positive impact of preoperative education on total joint arthroplasty (TJA) outcomes, the traditional method of conducting in-person individualized counseling or group education may limit access to these resources for a subset of the population. This study aimed to evaluate the use of preoperative telemedicine and in-person educational programs for primary TJA patients to determine if the utilization of telemedicine is inferior to in-person education in high-risk populations.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of all "high-risk" patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA or THA by 1 of 10 board-certified surgeons at a single institution over 1 year was performed. Patients were prospectively classified as high-risk based on race/ethnicity, comorbidities, and socioeconomic and psychosocial factors. Demographics, comorbidities, and hospital outcomes were compared between patients receiving preoperative nurse navigator education via telemedicine versus those receiving face-to-face education.

RESULTS

When comparing the interventions, telemedicine education was noninferior to face-to-face visits. No significant differences between postoperative length of stay, discharge home, 30-day emergency department return, or 30-day readmission rates were noted. Within the telemedicine group, patients who received video consultations were found to be 6 times more likely to be discharged home after surgery (odds ratio (OR): 5.95, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.00 to 25.49; P = .004) and less likely to have a 30-day readmission than the phone consultations (OR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.94: P = .050).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that telemedicine is not inferior to in-person preoperative education for patients undergoing unilateral TJA, although video-based consultation may improve outcomes over phone-only education.

Musculoskeletal Telemedicine Trends Preceding the COVID-19 Pandemic and Potential Implications of Rapid Telemedicine Expansion

Introduction

Telemedicine was rapidly deployed at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Little has been published on telemedicine in musculoskeletal care prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study is aimed at characterizing trends in telemedicine for musculoskeletal care preceding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This retrospective study used insurance claims from the Truven MarketScan database. Musculoskeletal-specific outpatient visits from 2014 to 2018 were identified using the musculoskeletal major diagnostic category ICD-10 codes. Telemedicine visits were categorized using CPT codes and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding Systems. We described annual trends in telemedicine in the overall dataset and by diagnosis grouping. Multivariable logistic regression modeling estimated the association between patient-specific and telemedicine visit variables and telemedicine utilization.

Results

There were 36,672 musculoskeletal-specific telemedicine visits identified (0.020% of all musculoskeletal visits). Overall, telemedicine utilization increased over the study period (0% in 2014 to 0.05% in 2018). Orthopedic surgeons had fewer telemedicine visits than primary care providers (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.55-0.59). The proportion of unique patients utilizing telemedicine in 2018 was higher in the south (OR 2.28, 95% CI 2.19-2.38) and west (OR 5.58, 95% CI 5.36-5.81) compared to the northeast. Those with increased comorbidities and lower incomes and living in rural areas had lower rates of telemedicine utilization.

Conclusions

From 2014 to 2018, there was an increase in telemedicine utilization for musculoskeletal visits, in part due to insurance reimbursement and telemedicine regulation. Despite this increase, the rates of telemedicine utilization are still lowest in some of the groups that could derive the most benefit from these services. Establishing this baseline is important for assessing how the roll-out of telemedicine during the pandemic impacted how/which patients and providers are utilizing telemedicine today.

Telemedicine approach for patient follow-up after total knee and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty: a pilot study

PURPOSE

The study aimed to demonstrate the reduction in postoperative follow-up visit time for patients receiving total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) by implementing a novel asynchronous telemedicine system compared to face-to-face visits. The range of motion interobserver agreement and patient satisfaction were evaluated in the telemedicine group.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted with a total of 28 patients with a mean age of 71 years (range 13.3). Patients were distributed into two study groups, TKA (n = 14) and RTSA (n = 14), and each group was randomly allocated into a face-to-face or virtual follow-up visit group. For the virtual group, software was designed including patient-specific model items (X-ray, range of motion and functional scores) for each arthroplasty. Functional assessment was conducted using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score for TKA and American Shoulder and Elbow score (ASES) and Simple Shoulder Test (SST) for RTSA. The range of motion interobserver concordance was conducted in the virtual follow-up groups via an intraclass correlation coefficient. Finally, a satisfaction survey was performed in the virtual follow-up groups. Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Mean time differences between face-to-face and virtual follow-ups were 502.5 s (95% CI 387.8-617.1; p < 0.002) in the RTSA group and 710 s (95% CI 597.91-822; p < 0. 002) in the TKA group. The range of motion interobserver concordance in the virtual group was 0.974 for TKA and 0.804 for RTSA. Finally, virtual follow-up satisfaction using the telematic method was 8.9 out of 10.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that a virtual follow-up using asynchronous telemedicine systems could reduce visit times, allow a correct articular range of motion evaluation and maintain satisfaction perception for patients. Asynchronous telemedicine could be an efficient method to conduct postoperative follow-up after knee and shoulder arthroplasty.

Innovations and Implementation of Telemedicine in Surgical Clinics Beyond COVID-19: A Narrative Review

Introduction: Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in the delivery of health care to surgical patients and innovations are developing to address challenges in the technology, enhancing consumer-provider encounters while located remotely. Our study aims at collating and commenting on the published evidence for how current challenges in telemedicine for surgical clinics are met by innovations currently in development. We also comment on the implementation and monitoring strategies for telemedicine. Methods: Databases searched included: PubMed, OVID Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and review of reference lists. Key words used were "telemedicine"; "telehealth"; "videoconference"; "outpatient"; and "surgical clinic." For inclusion, articles required to be in English, published between 2000 and 2021, were in an outpatient surgical setting, and if they had a focus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: Three hundred forty-five articles were identified and screened, so that 73 articles were included in the review. Almost all articles were from Western countries (n = 69), mostly in surgical journals (n = 39) and from a range of sub-specialties, but pre-dominantly orthopedics (n = 12) and general surgery (n = 9). The majority were original comparative studies, with 31 studies directly comparing telemedicine with in-person appointments and 22 articles focused on implementation during COVID-19. Discussion/Conclusion: Advanced telecommunication technology has enabled telemedicine to become an effective and safe form of health care delivery, with high consumer and provider satisfaction. Innovative protocol and technology developments have addressed the limitations of telemedicine. Sophisticated and familiar medical software integrates with electronic medical records to automate and streamline documentation, consent, and billing processes. Surgical clinics are investing in telehealth workflow co-ordination and information technology support to troubleshoot any technical difficulties as well as education for providers and consumers to address technology illiteracy. As health care services continue to transition their systems to an online network, further research is required to understand the ability and assess the feasibility of telemedicine to fully integrate.

Interaction at the primary–secondary care interface: Patients’ and physicians’ perceptions of teleconsultations

Introduction

Previous qualitative research on teleconsultations has focused on synchronous communication between a patient and a clinician. This study aims to explore physicians' and patients' perceptions of the interaction on the interface between primary care and the Cardiology service of a referral hospital through teleconsultations.

Methods

This qualitative study was embedded in an organizational case study concerning the introduction and rollout of a new service model that took place at the point of care. The patients and physicians were recruited for semi-structured interviews until thematic saturation was achieved, between September 2019 - January 2020. The interviews were audiorecorded and anonymized. The transcribed interviews were stored, coded, and analyzed in MAXQDA, following the steps for conventional content analysis.

Results

A total of 29 participants were interviewed. Patients and physicians presented clear views about the role of the GP and the cardiologist and their function in overall structure of healthcare. GPs felt their role was to bring expertise in the patient which could supplement the cardiologists' expertise on the condition. However, GPs had to renegotiate roles in the teleconsultations when they saw themselves in a new situation, together with another physician and the patient.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that joint teleconsultations can promote continuity of care for patients in the primary/secondary care interface. Active coordination between physicians with delineation of roles throughout primary-secondary care interface is needed to manage selected patients who may benefit the most from shared care.

Economic and Environmental Impact of Digital Health App Video Consultations in Follow-up Care for Patients in Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery in Germany: Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Following the Riyadh Declaration, digital health technologies were prioritized in many countries to address the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital health apps for telemedicine and video consultations help reduce potential disease spread in routine health care, including follow-up care in orthopedic and trauma surgery. In addition to the satisfaction, efficiency, and safety of telemedicine, its economic and environmental effects are highly relevant to decision makers, particularly for the goal of reaching carbon neutrality of health care systems.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to provide the first comprehensive health economic and environmental analysis of video consultations in follow-up care after knee and shoulder interventions in an orthopedic and trauma surgery department of a German university hospital. The analysis is conducted from a societal perspective. We analyze both economic and environmental impacts of video consultations, taking into account the goal of carbon neutrality for the German health care system by 2030.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial comparing follow-up care with digital health app video consultations (intervention group) to conventional face-to-face consultations in the clinic (control group). Economic impact included the analysis of travel and time costs and production losses. Examination of the environmental impact comprised the emissions of greenhouse gases, carbon monoxide, volatile hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and particulates, and the calculation of environmental costs. Sensitivity analysis included calculations with a higher cost per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent, which gives equal weight to the welfare of present and future generations.

RESULTS

Data from 52 patients indicated that, from the patients' point of view, telemedicine helped reduce travel costs, time costs, and production losses, resulting in mean cost savings of €76.52 per video consultation. In addition, emissions of 11.248 kg of greenhouse gases, 0.070 kg of carbon monoxide, 0.011 kg of volatile hydrocarbons, 0.028 kg of nitrogen oxides, and 0.0004 kg of particulates could be saved per patient through avoided travel. This resulted in savings of environmental costs between €3.73 and €9.53 per patient.

CONCLUSIONS

We presented the first comprehensive analysis of economic and environmental effects of telemedicine in the follow-up care of patients in orthopedic and trauma surgery in Germany. Video consultations were found to reduce the environmental footprint of follow-up care; saved travel costs, travel time, and time costs for patients; and helped to lower production losses. Our findings can support the decision-making on the use of digital health during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, providing decision makers with data for both economic and environmental effects. Thanks to the pragmatic design of our study, our findings can be applied to a wide range of clinical contexts and potential digital health applications that substitute outpatient hospital visits with video consultations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00023445; https://tinyurl.com/4pcvhz4n.

The use of video consultations to support orthopedic patients' treatment at the interface of a clinic and general practitioners

Introduction

Video consultations have proven to be a powerful support tool for patient–doctor interactions in general, not only during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study analyzed the feasibility and usefulness of orthopedic telemedical consultations (OTCs) for orthopedic patients at the interface of a clinic and general practitioners.

Methods

The study was carried out at an orthopedic department of a German hospital between April 2020 and October 2020. After written informed consent was obtained, general practitioners (GPs) of a large adjunct health region could present their patients with orthopedic pathologies to specialists at the hospital via OTCs instead of the usual live consultation (LC). The patients, specialists and GPs were evaluated for their OTC experience and attitude (5-point Likert-scale and open questions, 19 to 27 items).

Results

A total of 89 video consultations took place with 76 patients, 16 GPs and six specialists. The average distance between the GPs/patients and the hospital was 141.9 km. The OTCs were rated as pleasant, and the experience was rated as very satisfying (average Likert-Scale rating, with 5 as strong agreement: specialists = 4.8; GPs = 4.9; patients = 4.7). Following the OTC, a LC was not necessary in 76.4% of cases. Patients with a necessary LC after an OTC showed significantly lower satisfaction with the OTC (p = 0.005). Time savings, the elimination of travel and quick contact with orthopedic consultants were positively highlighted by the participants. A total of 123 recommendations for further treatment were given, such as the initiation of physiotherapy/medication and the use of imaging diagnostics. Different technical and organizational challenges could be identified and addressed.

Discussion

The vast majority of the participants stated they had a very positive impression. In particular, the potential savings in travel and time as well as straightforward contact with specialists were rated positively. However, limitations in the assessment of initial presentations of complex medical conditions were also highlighted. Further studies on OTCs with a consultative health professional may show other fields of use for this mode of interdisciplinary remote communication.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-022-05909-2.

Innovations in orthopaedic trauma: Top advancements of the past two decades and predictions for the next two

The first Trauma and Orthopaedic unit dates back to 1780, originally dedicated to the treatment of children's deformities. The specialty has subsequently become multifaceted, with a plethora of subspecialty areas of which orthopaedic trauma is the most commonly practiced. Recently there has been a significant demand for an evidence base with more than 130,000 of the 162,000 publications in the last century occurring within the past 20 years. This narrative review will summarise some of the more landmark changes within orthopaedic trauma that have been made within the past 20 years, whilst also attempting to predict where the specialty will continue to develop as we move forward.

Virtual surgical consultation during the COVID-19 pandemic: a patient-oriented, cross-sectional study using telephone interviews

BACKGROUND

Health care delivery shifted rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic, whereby virtual consultations replaced many face-to-face interactions. We sought to gather patient perspectives on their experiences with virtual surgical consultation, the advantages and disadvantages of this delivery method and their overall satisfaction with virtual appointments.

METHODS

We conducted a patient-oriented, cross-sectional study. Adult patients (age > 18 yr) who had a virtual consultation with a participating general surgeon in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, from April to May 2020 were eligible. We conducted telephone interviews using open- and close-ended questions. We used thematic analysis to determine themes from the qualitative data. As research team members, 2 patient partners were involved in identifying priorities, developing the research question, designing research methods, analyzing data and disseminating findings. We analyzed and presented quantitative data descriptively.

RESULTS

We interviewed 45 participants from 7 general surgery practices; the average age was 62 years. Most participants lived outside Saskatoon and had virtual follow-up appointments. The 3 themes related to advantages of virtual consultations were convenience, cost savings and decreased exposure to pathogens. The 4 themes related to their disadvantages were that they were not as personal, the surgeon was not able to perform a physical examination, and there were issues with scheduling and issues with technology. Most participants were satisfied with the care they received (n = 41) and would be willing to use virtual consultation in the future (n = 31).

INTERPRETATION

We found that virtual consultations are an effective and efficient way to deliver surgical care but are not appropriate for every situation and cannot completely replace face-to-face interactions. Our study identified the advantages and disadvantages of virtual surgical consultation to help better guide the delivery of virtual care in the future.

Reliability of a human pose tracking algorithm for measuring upper limb joints: comparison with photography-based goniometry

Background

Range of motion (ROM) measurements are essential for diagnosing and evaluating upper extremity conditions. Clinical goniometry is the most commonly used methods but it is time-consuming and skill-demanding. Recent advances in human tracking algorithm suggest potential for automatic angle measuring from RGB images. It provides an attractive alternative for at-distance measuring. However, the reliability of this method has not been fully established. The purpose of this study is to evaluate if the results of algorithm are as reliable as human raters in upper limb movements.

Methods

Thirty healthy young adults (20 males, 10 females) participated in this study. Participants were asked to performed a 6-motion task including movement of shoulder, elbow and wrist. Images of movements were captured by commercial digital cameras. Each movement was measured by a pose tracking algorithm (OpenPose) and compared with the surgeon-measurement results. The mean differences between the two measurements were compared. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to determine the relationship. Reliability was investigated by the intra-class correlation coefficients.

Results

Comparing this algorithm-based method with manual measurement, the mean differences were less than 3 degrees in 5 motions (shoulder abduction: 0.51; shoulder elevation: 2.87; elbow flexion:0.38; elbow extension:0.65; wrist extension: 0.78) except wrist flexion. All the intra-class correlation coefficients were larger than 0.60. The Pearson coefficients also showed high correlations between the two measurements (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our results indicated that pose estimation is a reliable method to measure the shoulder and elbow angles, supporting RGB images for measuring joint ROM. Our results presented the possibility that patients can assess their ROM by photos taken by a digital camera.

Trial registration

This study was registered in the Clinical Trials Center of The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University (2021–387).

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-022-05826-4.

Testing of an Ultrasound-Limited Imaging Protocol for Pavlik harness Supervision (TULIPPS) in developmental dysplasia of the hip: a randomized controlled trial

AIMS

There is no consensus regarding optimum timing and frequency of ultrasound (US) for monitoring response to Pavlik harness (PH) treatment in developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The purpose of our study was to determine if a limited-frequency hip US assessment had an adverse effect on treatment outcomes compared to traditional comprehensive US monitoring.

METHODS

This study was a single-centre noninferiority randomized controlled trial. Infants aged under six months whose hips were reduced and centred in the harness at initiation of treatment (stable dysplastic or subluxable), or initially decentred (subluxated or dislocated) but reduced and centred within four weeks of PH treatment, were randomized to our current standard US monitoring protocol (every clinic visit) or to a limited-frequency US protocol (US only at end of treatment). Groups were compared based on α angle and femoral head coverage at the end of PH treatment, acetabular indices, and International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) grade on one-year follow-up radiographs.

RESULTS

Overall, 100 patients were included; 42 patients completed the standard protocol (SP) and 40 completed the limited protocol (LP). There was no significant difference in mean right α angle at the end of treatment (SP 70.0° (SD 3.2°) ; LP 68.7° (SD 2.9°); p = 0.033), nor on the left (SP 69.0° (SD 3.5°); LP 68.1° (SD 3.3°); p = 0.128). There was no significant difference in mean right acetabular index at follow-up (SP 23.1° (SD 4.3°); LP 22.0° (SD 4.1°); p = 0.129), nor on the left (SP 23.3° (SD 4.2°); LP 22.8° (SD 3.9°); p = 0.284). All hips had femoral head coverage of > 50% at end of treatment, and all were IHDI grade 1 at follow-up. In addition, the LP group underwent a 60% reduction in US use once stable.

CONCLUSION

Our study supports reducing the frequency of US assessment during PH treatment of DDH once a hip is reduced and centred.Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(9):1081-1088.

Telemedicine Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Experience During COVID-19

BACKGROUND

Although telemedicine visits were essential and adopted by providers and patients alike, few studies have been conducted evaluating orthopedic patient perception of the care delivered during these visits. To our knowledge, no study has evaluated specific factors that affected patient satisfaction with telemedicine and the receptiveness to continue virtual visits post COVID-19 in total joint arthroplasty (TJA) patients. Thus, the purposes of our study are to determine the following: (1) patient satisfaction with using TJA telemedicine services, (2) whether patient characteristics might be associated with satisfaction, and (3) whether virtual clinic visits may be used post-COVID-19.

METHODS

A prospective, cross-sectional survey study was completed by 126 TJA patients who participated in telemedicine visits with TJA surgeons from May 1, 2020 to August 31, 2020. The survey consisted of questions regarding demographics, satisfaction, and telemedicine experiences.

RESULTS

One hundred one (80.2%) patients were satisfied with their telemedicine visit, with patients <80 years old (P = .008) and those with a longer commute time (P = .01) being more satisfied P = .01. There was a significant preference for in-person visits when meeting arthroplasty surgeons for the first time (P < .001), but patients were equally amenable to follow-up telemedicine visits once there was an established relationship with the surgeon.

CONCLUSION

Younger patients, patients with longer commute distances, and patients who had established relationships with their provider expressed higher satisfaction with telemedicine arthroplasty visits. Although >80% of patients were satisfied with their telemedicine visit, an established patient-provider relationship may be integral to the success of an arthroplasty telemedicine practice.

Telemedicine Use during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results of an International Survey

Objective  The aim of the study is to survey hand surgeons' perspectives on telemedicine during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and intended applications after the pandemic. Methods  Online surveys were sent to 285 Canadian and American surgeons in late April and early May 2020. Results  Response rate was 63% (180)-84% (152) American and 16% (28) Canadian. Forty-three percent (76) of respondents were in private practice, 36% (64) academics, 13% (24) privademics, and 6% (12) hospital employed. The most common telemedicine platform was Zoom. During the pandemic, 42% of patient visits were conducted via telemedicine; however, 37% required a subsequent in-person office visit. The most common complaint by surgeons was the inability to provide routine in-office procedures. The most beneficial feature was ease of use, and the most frustrating feature was connectivity difficulty. Time spent was similar to in-person visits, and surgeons were likely to recommend their platforms. Surgeons were neutral about using telehealth in the future and were most likely to use it for follow-up visits. New patient visits for traumatic injuries or fractures were of limited value. Canadians used telemedicine for a greater proportion than Americans (50 vs. 40%, p <0.05) and spent more time than in-person visits (7/10 vs. 5/10, p <0.05). Americans were more likely to use telemedicine for postoperative follow-up visits (6/10 vs. 4/10, p <0.05) and in mornings before clinic opens (4/10 vs. 2/10, p <0.05). Private practices were more likely to use telemedicine for future allied health provider visits than all other practice types ( p <0.05). Conclusion  Telemedicine comprised nearly half of patient encounters during the COVID-19 pandemic, but limitations remain.

Incorporating telemedicine into an ambulatory orthopedic practice

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in many challenges for the healthcare system. This article describes how an ambulatory orthopedic practice transitioned to telemedicine in order to continue to provide effective, efficient, and safe care for patients. Although this discipline relies heavily on physical assessment and examination, telemedicine can be successfully implemented in this area.

Reliability and accuracy of telemedicine-based shoulder examinations

BACKGROUND

Telemedicine has become a critical component in the evaluation and management of patients with shoulder pathology. However, the interobserver reliability of findings on virtual physical examination relative to in-person evaluation is unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of prerecorded video telemedicine for the evaluation of shoulder pathology compared with traditional in-person physical examination.

METHODS

New patients with unilateral shoulder pain presenting to a single-surgeon shoulder clinic were recruited between July and November 2020. In 1 visit, patients were evaluated with standardized in-person and video-guided telemedicine physical examinations in randomized order. Patients were evaluated for range of motion (ROM) and symptoms including pain, weakness, and apprehension. The telemedicine examination was recorded and consisted of a video guide displaying self-directed shoulder examination maneuvers that patients performed during remote coaching by an independent non-physician observer. The in-person physical examination was performed by the treating physician. The telemedicine videos were evaluated by two independent observers for interobserver reliability. The treating physician subsequently evaluated the telemedicine videos after a minimum two-month washout period for intraobserver reliability and intra-platform reliability. Interobserver and intraobserver reliability analyses were conducted using Kuder-Richardson formula 20 (KR-20). Specificity and likelihood ratios were calculated with P < .05 representing statistical significance.

RESULTS

A total of 32 patients (17 male and 15 female patients; average age, 50.2 ± 16.2 years) were included in the analysis. Overall Kuder-Richardson formula 20 (KR-20) reliability across 40 physical examination maneuvers was 0.391 ± 0.332 (76.4% ± 15.4% agreement) between the in-person and telemedicine examinations. Telemedicine maneuvers examining ROM limitations had the highest degree of reliability, sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood of also producing a positive finding on the in-person examination (0.700 ± 0.114, 66.5%, 81.0%, and 6.06, respectively). Telemedicine maneuvers identifying apprehension associated with glenohumeral instability were found to have the lowest reliability, sensitivity, and likelihood of producing a positive finding on the in-person examination (0.170 ± 0.440, 23.5%, and 0.518, respectively). All patients were satisfied with their telemedicine experience.

CONCLUSION

The overall reliability of a non-physician-directed video-guided telemedicine examination ranged from unacceptable to good. Shoulder ROM limitations identified during the telemedicine examinations were found to be the most reliable, whereas evaluations of instability were found to be the least reliable. Although initial telemedicine evaluation by a non-physician may be appropriate for ROM evaluation, in-person physician evaluation is recommended to confirm suspected diagnoses, especially if clinical concern for shoulder instability exists. Alternative methods of telemedicine delivery should be explored to improve the reliability of self-directed physical examination maneuvers.

Assessing Telemedicine Efficiency in Follow-up Care With Video Consultations for Patients in Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery in Germany: Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Telemedicine can help mitigate important health care challenges, such as demographic changes and the current COVID-19 pandemic, in high-income countries such as Germany. It gives physicians and patients the opportunity to interact via video consultations, regardless of their location, thus offering cost and time savings for both sides.

Objective

We aimed to investigate whether telemedicine can be implemented efficiently in the follow-up care for patients in orthopedic and trauma surgery, with respect to patient satisfaction, physician satisfaction, and quality of care.

Methods

We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial in a German university hospital and enrolled 60 patients with different knee and shoulder conditions. For follow-up appointments, patients received either an in-person consultation in the clinic (control group) or a video consultation with their physician (telemedicine group). Patients’ and physicians’ subsequent evaluations of these follow-up appointments were collected and assessed using separate questionnaires.

Results

On the basis of data from 52 consultations after 8 withdrawals, it was found that patients were slightly more satisfied with video consultations (mean 1.58, SD 0.643) than with in-clinic consultations (mean 1.64, SD 0.569), although the difference was not statistically significant (P=.69). After excluding video consultations marred by technical problems, no significant difference was found in physician satisfaction between the groups (mean 1.47, SD 0.516 vs mean 1.32, SD 0.557; P=.31). Further analysis indicated that telemedicine can be applied to broader groups of patients and that patients who have prior experience with telemedicine are more willing to use telemedicine for follow-up care.

Conclusions

Telemedicine can be an alternative and efficient form of follow-up care for patients in orthopedic and trauma surgery in Germany, and it has no significant disadvantages compared with in-person consultations in the clinic.

Trial Registration

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00023445; https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00023445

Real-time remote outpatient consultations in secondary and tertiary care: A systematic review of inequalities in invitation and uptake

Background

Health policies in most high income countries increasingly recommend provision of routine outpatient care via remote (video and/or telephone) appointments, especially due to the pandemic. This is thought to improve access to care and promote efficiency within resource-constrained health services. There is limited evidence about the impact on existing inequalities in the invitation and uptake of health services when remote outpatient care is offered.

Aim

To systematically review the evidence on the offer and/or uptake of real-time remote outpatient consultations in secondary and tertiary care, assessed according to key sociodemographic characteristics.

Methods

Seven electronic bibliographic databases were searched for studies reporting the proportion of patients with key characteristics (following PROGRESS Plus criteria) who were offered and/or accepted real-time remote outpatient consultation for any chronic condition. Comparison groups included usual care (face-to-face), another intervention, or offer/uptake within a comparable time period. Study processes were undertaken in duplicate. Data are reported narratively.

Results

Twenty-nine studies were included. Uptake of video consultations ranged from 5% to 78% and telephone consultations from 12% to 78%. Patients aged over 65, with lower educational attainment, on lower household incomes and without English as a first language were least likely to have a remote consultation. Females were generally more likely to have remote consultations than males. Non-white ethnicities were less likely to use remote consultations but where they did, were significantly more likely to choose telephone over video appointments (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Offering remote consultations may perpetuate or exacerbate existing health inequalities in access to healthcare. More research is needed on current health disparities by sociodemographic characteristics and to explore what works well for different patient groups and why so that processes can be designed to ameliorate these health disparities.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration no: CRD42021241791.

Spine Patient Satisfaction With Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study

STUDY DESIGN

Original research, cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

Evaluate patient satisfaction with spine care delivered via telemedicine. Identify patient- and visit-based factors associated with increased satisfaction and visit preference.

METHODS

Telemedicine visits with a spine surgeon at 2 practices in the United States between March and May 2020 were eligible for inclusion in the study. Patients were sent an electronic survey recording overall satisfaction, technical or clinical issues encountered, and preference for a telemedicine versus an in-person visit. Factors associated with poor satisfaction and preference of telemedicine over an in-person visit were identified using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 772 responses were collected. Overall, 87.7% of patients were satisfied with their telemedicine visit and 45% indicated a preference for a telemedicine visit over an in-person visit if given the option. Patients with technical or clinical issues were significantly less likely to achieve 5 out of 5 satisfaction scores and were significantly more likely to prefer an in-person visit. Patients who live less than 5 miles from their surgeon's office and patients older than 60 years were also significantly more likely to prefer in-person visits.

CONCLUSIONS

Spine telemedicine visits during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with high patient satisfaction. Additionally, 45% of respondents indicated a preference for telemedicine versus an in-patient visit in the future. In light of these findings, telemedicine for spine care may be a preferable option for a subset of patients into the future.

[Video consultation in an orthopedic trauma surgery outpatient clinic : Effective adjunctive interventions in lockdown and post-lockdown scenarios-a prospective pilot study]

BACKGROUND

With the regulation of the Saxon State Government and the Saxon State Ministry for Social Affairs and Social Responsibility on the modification of the Infection Protection Act of March 2020 coming into force, a video-based outpatient consultation was implemented to maintain patient care. In order to allow communication with minimized contact, this was continued after the lockdown.

AIM OF THE WORK

The aim of this prospective pilot study was to assess the effectiveness of a video-based outpatient consultation service, technical feasibility and control of patient flow under both lockdown and post-lockdown conditions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The initial evaluation was conducted up to 14 December 2020 when the second restrictive measures were implemented by the state government. The quality of the connections regarding sound and image was documented. Furthermore, the consequences of the conversations were documented. Distinctions were made in four categories: 1. no follow-up visit, 2. follow-up via video consultation, 3. operative intervention and 4. in-person follow-up visit for clinical examination.

RESULTS

There were 236 video-based outpatient consultations, 182 (82%) consultations were without restrictions and 47 (21%) consultations were initial presentations. There were no follow-up consultations in 41 (18%) patients. Video-based follow-up was scheduled in 36 (16%) patients, direct referral for surgery in 36 (16%) patients, and in-person follow-up in 105 (47%) patients.

DISCUSSION

In 40% of the patients a definite decision could be made by the initial video-based consultation alone. On the other hand, 47% of the patients needed in-person follow-up for a clinical examination. Thus, video consultation is a very useful measure to manage patient volume and visibly support direct doctor-patient contact.