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Grygorian A, Montano D, Shojaa M, Ferencak M, Schmitz N. Digital Health Interventions and Patient Safety in Abdominal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e248555. [PMID: 38669018 PMCID: PMC11053376 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.8555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Over the past 2 decades, several digital technology applications have been used to improve clinical outcomes after abdominal surgery. The extent to which these telemedicine interventions are associated with improved patient safety outcomes has not been assessed in systematic and meta-analytic reviews. Objective To estimate the implications of telemedicine interventions for complication and readmission rates in a population of patients with abdominal surgery. Data Sources PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were queried to identify relevant randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and nonrandomized studies published from inception through February 2023 that compared perioperative telemedicine interventions with conventional care and reported at least 1 patient safety outcome. Study Selection Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts to exclude irrelevant studies as well as assessed the full-text articles for eligibility. After exclusions, 11 RCTs and 8 cohort studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis and 7 were included in the narrative review. Data Extraction and Synthesis Data were extracted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline and assessed for risk of bias by 2 reviewers. Meta-analytic estimates were obtained in random-effects models. Main Outcomes and Measures Number of complications, emergency department (ED) visits, and readmissions. Results A total of 19 studies (11 RCTs and 8 cohort studies) with 10 536 patients were included. The pooled risk ratio (RR) estimates associated with ED visits (RR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.65-0.94) and readmissions (RR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.58-0.78) favored the telemedicine group. There was no significant difference in the risk of complications between patients in the telemedicine and conventional care groups (RR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.77-1.43). Conclusions and Relevance Findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that perioperative telehealth interventions are associated with reduced risk of readmissions and ED visits after abdominal surgery. However, the mechanisms of action for specific types of abdominal surgery are still largely unknown and warrant further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artem Grygorian
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Population-Based Medicine, Tuebingen University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Diego Montano
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Population-Based Medicine, Tuebingen University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Mahdieh Shojaa
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Population-Based Medicine, Tuebingen University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Maximilian Ferencak
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Population-Based Medicine, Tuebingen University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Norbert Schmitz
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Population-Based Medicine, Tuebingen University, Tuebingen, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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O'Connor AL, Shmelev A, Shettig A, Santucci NM, Bray J, Bazarian A, Orenstein SB, Nikolian VC. Assessing Patient-Reported Experiences for In-Person and Telemedicine-Based Preoperative Evaluations. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:472-479. [PMID: 37624627 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed health care delivery through the rise of telehealth solutions. Though telemedicine-based care has been identified as safe and feasible in postoperative care, data on initial surgical consultations in the preoperative setting are lacking. We sought to compare patient characteristics, anticipated downstream care utilization, and patient-reported experiences (PREs) for in-person versus telemedicine-based care conducted for initial consultation encounters at a hernia and abdominal wall center. Methods: Patients evaluated at an abdominal wall reconstruction center from August 2021 to August 2022 were prospectively surveyed. Patient characteristics, anticipated downstream care utilization, and PREs were compared. Results: Of the 176 respondents, 50.6% (n = 89) utilized telemedicine-based care and had similar demographic and disease characteristics to those receiving in-person care. Telemedicine-based care saved a median of 47 min [interquartile range 20-112.5 min] of round-trip travel time per patient, with 10.1% of encounters resulting in supplemental in-person evaluation. A large proportion of telemedicine-based and in-person encounters resulted in recommendations for operative intervention, 38.2% versus 55.2%, respectively. Indirect costs of care were significantly lower for patients utilizing telemedicine-based services. Patient satisfaction related to encounters was non-inferior to in-person care. Overall, the majority of patients responded that they preferred future care to be delivered via telemedicine-based services, if offered. Conclusions: Preoperative telemedicine-based care was associated with significant cost-savings over in-person care related with comparable patient satisfaction. Health systems should continue to dedicate resources to optimizing and expanding perioperative telemedicine capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber L O'Connor
- Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Artem Shmelev
- Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Abigale Shettig
- Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Nicole M Santucci
- Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jordan Bray
- Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Alina Bazarian
- Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Sean B Orenstein
- Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Vahagn C Nikolian
- Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Bertoni S, M M K Magema JP, Van Geluwe B, Abbes Orabi N, Bislenghi G, D'Hoore A, Wolthuis A. Digital postoperative follow-up after colorectal resection: a multi-center preliminary qualitative study on a patient reporting and monitoring application. Updates Surg 2024; 76:139-146. [PMID: 37943493 DOI: 10.1007/s13304-023-01671-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
The development of minimally invasive colorectal surgery in the last decades led to a decrease in length of hospital stay. However, readmission and postoperative complications were still observed. Several studies have shown that close postoperative follow-up is required to decrease postoperative morbidity through patient education and by detecting early signs of complications. To help in this task, multiple monitoring programs have been set up to follow patients at home, allowing detection of several complications at an early stage. To evaluate acceptance, satisfaction, usability, compliance and safety of a mobile application following postoperative colorectal patients during the first 15 days post-discharge from hospital. A mobile application enabling the communication between the patient and medical staff during the recovery phase was developed and tested in four hospitals. Patients who underwent a colorectal resection were included in this prospective qualitative study. Questionnaires to assess satisfaction and usability were handed out to patients at the end of the test period. Overall, 118 patients (52% females, median age 52.5 years) were included. Median adherence-rate during 15 days was 89.6%. Satisfaction-rate for the application was 76% and usability was high. Overall, 1220 notifications were collected, of which 722 were orange, 466 red and 32 purple, colours used to rate the severeness of complaints. We analyzed the most common notifications, showing trends in different subgroups of the study with higher risks of complications (pain (409 notifications), abnormal stools (196 notifications), and wound problems (118 notifications)). A mobile application could be used to follow patients at home after colorectal resection. Future studies should evaluate whether these applications can detect complications and prevent readmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Bertoni
- General and Digestive Surgery Unit, CHU-UCL Namur, Site Dinant, 5500, Dinant, Belgium
| | | | - Bart Van Geluwe
- Abdominal Surgery Unit, AZ Groeninge, 8500, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Nora Abbes Orabi
- General and Digestive Surgery Unit, CHR Mons-Hainaut, 7022, Mons, Belgium
| | - Gabriele Bislenghi
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, 3000, Louvain, Belgium
| | - André D'Hoore
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, 3000, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Albert Wolthuis
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, 3000, Louvain, Belgium.
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Chishtie J, Sapiro N, Wiebe N, Rabatach L, Lorenzetti D, Leung AA, Rabi D, Quan H, Eastwood CA. Use of Epic Electronic Health Record System for Health Care Research: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e51003. [PMID: 38100185 PMCID: PMC10757236 DOI: 10.2196/51003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electronic health records (EHRs) enable health data exchange across interconnected systems from varied settings. Epic is among the 5 leading EHR providers and is the most adopted EHR system across the globe. Despite its global reach, there is a gap in the literature detailing how EHR systems such as Epic have been used for health care research. OBJECTIVE The objective of this scoping review is to synthesize the available literature on use cases of the Epic EHR for research in various areas of clinical and health sciences. METHODS We used established scoping review methods and searched 9 major information repositories, including databases and gray literature sources. To categorize the research data, we developed detailed criteria for 5 major research domains to present the results. RESULTS We present a comprehensive picture of the method types in 5 research domains. A total of 4669 articles were screened by 2 independent reviewers at each stage, while 206 articles were abstracted. Most studies were from the United States, with a sharp increase in volume from the year 2015 onwards. Most articles focused on clinical care, health services research and clinical decision support. Among research designs, most studies used longitudinal designs, followed by interventional studies implemented at single sites in adult populations. Important facilitators and barriers to the use of Epic and EHRs in general were identified. Important lessons to the use of Epic and other EHRs for research purposes were also synthesized. CONCLUSIONS The Epic EHR provides a wide variety of functions that are helpful toward research in several domains, including clinical and population health, quality improvement, and the development of clinical decision support tools. As Epic is reported to be the most globally adopted EHR, researchers can take advantage of its various system features, including pooled data, integration of modules and developing decision support tools. Such research opportunities afforded by the system can contribute to improving quality of care, building health system efficiencies, and conducting population-level studies. Although this review is limited to the Epic EHR system, the larger lessons are generalizable to other EHRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawad Chishtie
- Center for Health Informatics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Natalie Sapiro
- Center for Health Informatics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Natalie Wiebe
- Center for Health Informatics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Diane Lorenzetti
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Health Sciences Library, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Alexander A Leung
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Doreen Rabi
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Hude Quan
- Center for Health Informatics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Cathy A Eastwood
- Center for Health Informatics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Munir MM, Endo Y, Woldesenbet S, Beane J, Dillhoff M, Ejaz A, Cloyd J, Pawlik TM. Variations in Travel Patterns Affect Regionalization of Complex Cancer Surgery in California. Ann Surg Oncol 2023; 30:8044-8053. [PMID: 37659977 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14242-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Regionalization of complex surgical procedures may improve healthcare quality. We sought to define the impact of regionalization on access to high-volume hospitals for complex oncologic procedures in the state of California. METHODS The California Department of Health Care Access and Information Database (2012-2016) identified patients who underwent esophagectomy (ES), pneumonectomy (PN), pancreatectomy (PA), or proctectomy (PR). Geospatial analysis was conducted to determine travel patterns. Clustered multivariable regression was performed to assess the probability of receiving care at a high-volume center. RESULTS Among 25,070 patients (ES: n = 1216, 4.9%; PN: n = 13,247, 52.8%; PD: n = 3559, 14.2%; PR: n = 7048, 28.1%), 6575 (26.2%) individuals resided within 30 min, 11,046 (44.1%) resided within 30-60 min, 7125 (28.4%) resided within 60-90 min, and 324 (1.3%) resided beyond a 90-min travel window from a high-volume center. Median travel distance was 13.4 miles (interquartile range [IQR] 6.0-28.7). On multivariable regression, patients residing further away were more likely to bypass a low-volume center to undergo care at a high-volume hospital (odds ratio 1.32, 95% confidence interval 1.12-1.55) versus individuals residing closer to high-volume centers. Approximately one-third (29.7%) of patients lived beyond a 1-h travel window to the nearest high-volume hospital, of whom 5% traveled over 90 min. While hospital mortality rates across different travel time windows did not differ, surgery at a high-volume center was associated with an overall 1.2% decrease in in-hospital mortality. CONCLUSIONS Regionalization of complex cancer surgery may be associated with a significant travel burden for a large subset of patients with complex cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Musaab Munir
- Department of Surgery, Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Yutaka Endo
- Department of Surgery, Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Selamawit Woldesenbet
- Department of Surgery, Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Joal Beane
- Department of Surgery, Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mary Dillhoff
- Department of Surgery, Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Aslam Ejaz
- Department of Surgery, Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jordan Cloyd
- Department of Surgery, Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Department of Surgery, The Urban Meyer III and Shelley Meyer Chair for Cancer Research, Oncology, Health Services Management and Policy, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Iqbal MP, Newman B, Ellis LA, Mears S, Harrison R. Characterising consumer engagement in virtual models of care: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 115:107922. [PMID: 37542823 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Widespread adoption of digital tools and technologies now support the delivery of virtual healthcare. Although, consumer engagement is central to care processes in virtual care models, there is paucity of evidence regarding the nature and outcomes of consumer engagement. This study aimed to determine the nature of consumer engagement used in virtual models of care, and its impact on quality and safety of care. METHODS A systematic review was undertaken with a narrative synthesis, with a search strategy applied to five electronic databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Web of Science) RESULTS: Fifty-eight studies were included in the review that utilised a variety of virtual models of care across care services. Consumer engagement, such as patients' active involvement in monitoring, capturing and reporting their health data, was a common feature of the identified virtual models. CONCLUSION Increasing use of virtual models of care requires consideration of the role of patients and their support persons in the use of technology and in wider care processes that occur at a distance from health professionals. Ensuring consumers are equipped with necessary support to effectively engage in virtual care is important to ensure equity in access to, and outcomes of, virtual care models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Pervaz Iqbal
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Bronwyn Newman
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louise A Ellis
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephen Mears
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Reema Harrison
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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King CR, Gregory S, Fritz BA, Budelier TP, Ben Abdallah A, Kronzer A, Helsten DL, Torres B, McKinnon S, Goswami S, Mehta D, Higo O, Kerby P, Henrichs B, Wildes TS, Politi MC, Abraham J, Avidan MS, Kannampallil T. An Intraoperative Telemedicine Program to Improve Perioperative Quality Measures: The ACTFAST-3 Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2332517. [PMID: 37738052 PMCID: PMC10517374 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.32517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Telemedicine for clinical decision support has been adopted in many health care settings, but its utility in improving intraoperative care has not been assessed. Objective To pilot the implementation of a real-time intraoperative telemedicine decision support program and evaluate whether it reduces postoperative hypothermia and hyperglycemia as well as other quality of care measures. Design, Setting, and Participants This single-center pilot randomized clinical trial (Anesthesiology Control Tower-Feedback Alerts to Supplement Treatments [ACTFAST-3]) was conducted from April 3, 2017, to June 30, 2019, at a large academic medical center in the US. A total of 26 254 adult surgical patients were randomized to receive either usual intraoperative care (control group; n = 12 980) or usual care augmented by telemedicine decision support (intervention group; n = 13 274). Data were initially analyzed from April 22 to May 19, 2021, with updates in November 2022 and February 2023. Intervention Patients received either usual care (medical direction from the anesthesia care team) or intraoperative anesthesia care monitored and augmented by decision support from the Anesthesiology Control Tower (ACT), a real-time, live telemedicine intervention. The ACT incorporated remote monitoring of operating rooms by a team of anesthesia clinicians with customized analysis software. The ACT reviewed alerts and electronic health record data to inform recommendations to operating room clinicians. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcomes were avoidance of postoperative hypothermia (defined as the proportion of patients with a final recorded intraoperative core temperature >36 °C) and hyperglycemia (defined as the proportion of patients with diabetes who had a blood glucose level ≤180 mg/dL on arrival to the postanesthesia recovery area). Secondary outcomes included intraoperative hypotension, temperature monitoring, timely antibiotic redosing, intraoperative glucose evaluation and management, neuromuscular blockade documentation, ventilator management, and volatile anesthetic overuse. Results Among 26 254 participants, 13 393 (51.0%) were female and 20 169 (76.8%) were White, with a median (IQR) age of 60 (47-69) years. There was no treatment effect on avoidance of hyperglycemia (7445 of 8676 patients [85.8%] in the intervention group vs 7559 of 8815 [85.8%] in the control group; rate ratio [RR], 1.00; 95% CI, 0.99-1.01) or hypothermia (7602 of 11 447 patients [66.4%] in the intervention group vs 7783 of 11 672 [66.7.%] in the control group; RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.97-1.02). Intraoperative glucose measurement was more common among patients with diabetes in the intervention group (RR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01-1.15), but other secondary outcomes were not significantly different. Conclusions and Relevance In this randomized clinical trial, anesthesia care quality measures did not differ between groups, with high confidence in the findings. These results suggest that the intervention did not affect the targeted care practices. Further streamlining of clinical decision support and workflows may help the intraoperative telemedicine program achieve improvement in targeted clinical measures. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02830126.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R. King
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Stephen Gregory
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Bradley A. Fritz
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Thaddeus P. Budelier
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Arbi Ben Abdallah
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Alex Kronzer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Daniel L. Helsten
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Brian Torres
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Sherry McKinnon
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Shreya Goswami
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Divya Mehta
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Omokhaye Higo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Paul Kerby
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Bernadette Henrichs
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Troy S. Wildes
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha
| | - Mary C. Politi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Joanna Abraham
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
- Institute for Informatics, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Michael S. Avidan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Thomas Kannampallil
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
- Institute for Informatics, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
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Urbonas T, Lakha AS, King E, Pepes S, Ceresa C, Udupa V, Soonawalla Z, Silva MA, Gordon-Weeks A, Reddy S. 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. Patient Saf Surg 2023; 17:23. [PMID: 37644474 PMCID: PMC10466851 DOI: 10.1186/s13037-023-00368-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Urbonas
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Adil Siraj Lakha
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Emily King
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Sophia Pepes
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Carlo Ceresa
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Venkatesha Udupa
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Zahir Soonawalla
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Michael A Silva
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Alex Gordon-Weeks
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Srikanth Reddy
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
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Choi L, Riedinger C, Gardner K, Ziegler C, Brinson R, Sutton E. Gauging the Acceptance of Telemedicine in Postoperative Evaluation of Uncomplicated Laparoscopic Appendectomy and Cholecystectomy. TELEMEDICINE REPORTS 2023; 4:259-265. [PMID: 37637377 PMCID: PMC10457610 DOI: 10.1089/tmr.2023.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Telemedicine is a rising field, with continuous expansion into different realms of health care delivery. However, minimal research has been done to analyze the utilization in surgical specialties. This study aims to assess satisfaction and acceptance of postoperative telehealth care after uncomplicated general surgery cases. Methods Patients who had undergone uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy or uncomplicated laparoscopic appendectomy were eligible to be enrolled in this study. Patients with gangrenous gallbladder, malignancy, operative complications, or appendix perforation were excluded. The experimental group underwent postoperative follow-up within a web-based platform (http://bluejeans.com), whereas the control group had an in-person clinic visit. Survey results containing satisfaction, comfort, and time usage were obtained. Likert scale 1-5 was utilized to quantify responses. Results Thirty patients were enrolled into this prospective single intervention trial (20 experimental, 10 control). Ninety percent (n = 18) of the experimental group stated satisfaction with their visit, and 75% (n = 15) would suggest telemedicine usage to other physicians. Postoperative visit satisfaction was not statistically different between the experimental and control groups (4.2 vs. 4.5, p = 0.124). A higher percentage of the control group took >3 h for the visit than the telemedicine group (30% vs. 15%), with two individuals in the control group dedicating their full day to the visit, compared with zero individuals in the experimental group. Comfort with technology used during the visit was not statistically different between the telemedicine and in-person groups (4.35 vs. 4.5, p = 0.641). Conclusions Telemedicine for postoperative evaluation on selective general surgery cases is feasible and provides adequate patient satisfaction and improved time utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Choi
- University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Courtney Riedinger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kent Gardner
- Office of Undergraduate Medical Education, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Craig Ziegler
- Office of Undergraduate Medical Education, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Reginald Brinson
- Office of Information Technology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Erica Sutton
- Department of Surgery, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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10
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Harkey K, Kaiser N, Zhao J, Gutnik B, Kelz R, Matthews BD, Reinke C. Utilization of telemedicine to provide post-discharge care: A comparison of pre-pandemic vs. pandemic care. Am J Surg 2023; 226:163-169. [PMID: 36966017 PMCID: PMC10014479 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, post-discharge virtual visits transitioned from a novel intervention to standard practice. Our aim was to evaluate participation in and outcomes of virtual post-discharge visits in the early-pandemic timeframe. METHODS Pandemic cohort patients were compared to historical patients. Patient demographics, clinical information, and post-discharge 30-day hospital encounters were compared between groups. RESULTS The historical cohort included 563 patients and the pandemic cohort had 823 patients. There was no difference in 30-day hospital encounters between patients who completed a video vs. telephone visit in the pandemic cohort (3.8% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.11). There was a lower 30-day hospital encounter rate in pandemic video and telephone visits compared to similar historical sub-groups. CONCLUSION Expansion of virtual post-discharge visits to include all patients and telephone calls did not negatively impact rates of 30-day post-discharge hospital encounters. Offering telehealth options for post-discharge follow-up does not appear to have negative impact on healthcare utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Harkey
- Carolinas Medical Center, Department of Surgery, 1000 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28204, USA.
| | - Nicole Kaiser
- Carolinas Medical Center, Department of Surgery, 1000 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28204, USA.
| | - Jing Zhao
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), Atrium Health, 1300 Scott Avenue, Charlotte, NC, USA.
| | - Bella Gutnik
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), Atrium Health, 1300 Scott Avenue, Charlotte, NC, USA.
| | - Rachel Kelz
- Department of Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Brent D Matthews
- Carolinas Medical Center, Department of Surgery, 1000 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28204, USA.
| | - Caroline Reinke
- Carolinas Medical Center, Department of Surgery, 1000 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28204, USA.
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11
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Zheng H, Lai V, Lu J, Hu D, Kang JK, Burman KD, Wartofsky L, Rosen JE. Efficacy of machine learning to identify clinical factors influencing levothyroxine dosage after total thyroidectomy. Am J Surg 2023; 225:694-698. [PMID: 36464545 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2022.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We employed Machine Learning (ML) to evaluate potential additional clinical factors influencing replacement dosage requirements of levothyroxine. METHOD This was a retrospective study of patients who underwent total or completion thyroidectomy with benign pathology. Patients who achieved an euthyroid state were included in three different ML models. RESULTS Of the 487 patients included, mean age was 54.1 ± 14.1 years, 86.0% were females, 39.0% were White, 53.0% Black, 2.7% Hispanic, 1.4% Asian, and 3.9% Other. The Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) model achieved the highest accuracy at 61.0% in predicting adequate dosage compared to 47.0% based on 1.6 mcg/kg/day (p < 0.05). The Poisson regression indicated non-Caucasian race (p < 0.05), routine alcohol use (estimate = 0.03, p = 0.02), and osteoarthritis (estimate = -0.10, p < 0.001) in addition to known factors such as age (estimate = -0.003, p < 0.001), sex (female, estimate = -0.06, p < 0.001), and weight (estimate = 0.01, p < 0.001) were associated with the dosing of levothyroxine. CONCLUSIONS Along with weight, sex, age, and BMI, ML algorithms indicated that race, ethnicity, lifestyle and comorbidity factors also may impact levothyroxine dosing in post-thyroidectomy patients with benign conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zheng
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Division of Endocrine Surgery, USA; MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Department of Surgery, USA.
| | - Victoria Lai
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Division of Endocrine Surgery, USA
| | - Jana Lu
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Di Hu
- MedStar Health Research Institute, Center of Biostatistics, Informatics and Data Science, USA
| | - Jin K Kang
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Division of Endocrine Surgery, USA; MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Department of Surgery, USA
| | - Kenneth D Burman
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Section of Endocrinology, USA
| | | | - Jennifer E Rosen
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Division of Endocrine Surgery, USA
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12
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O'Connor AL, Shettig A, Santucci NM, Sutton TL, Bray JO, Borzy C, Orenstein SB, Nikolian VC. Bedside vs webside: Assessing patient-reported experiences for in-person and telemedicine-based perioperative evaluations. Am J Surg 2023; 225:847-851. [PMID: 36870791 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2023.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though telemedicine has been identified as safe and feasible, data on patient reported experiences (PREs) are lacking. We sought to compare PREs between in-person and telemedicine-based perioperative care. METHODS Patients evaluated from August-November 2021 were prospectively surveyed to assess experiences and satisfaction with care rendered during in-person and telemedicine-based encounters. Patient and hernia characteristics, encounter related plans, and PREs were compared between in-person and telemedicine-based care. RESULTS Of 109 respondents (86% response rate), 55% (n = 60) utilized telemedicine-based perioperative care. Indirect costs were lower for patients using telemedicine-based services, including work absence (3% vs. 33%, P < 0.001), lost wages (0% vs. 14%, P = 0.003), and requirements for hotel accommodations (0% vs. 12%, P = 0.007). PREs related to telemedicine-based care were non-inferior to in-person care across all measured domains (P > 0.4). CONCLUSIONS Telemedicine-based care yields significant cost-savings over in-person care with similar patient satisfaction. These findings suggest that systems should focus on optimization of perioperative telemedicine services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jordan O Bray
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Charlie Borzy
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | - Vahagn C Nikolian
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA. https://twitter.com/VNikolian
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13
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Bray JO, O'Connor S, Sutton TL, Santucci NM, Elsheikh M, Bazarian AN, Orenstein SB, Nikolian VC. Patient-performed at-home surgical drain removal is safe and feasible following hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction. Am J Surg 2023; 225:388-393. [PMID: 36167625 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2022.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditionally, surgical drains are considered a relative contraindication to telemedicine-based postoperative care. We sought to assess the safety, feasibility, and outcomes of an at-home patient-performed surgical drain removal pilot program. METHODS A prospective cohort study among patients who were discharged with surgical drains was performed. Patients discharged with drains were given the option for in-clinic, provider-performed removal, or at-home, patient-performed drain removal. Patient demographics, health characteristics, perioperative metrics, and operative outcomes were compared and analyzed. RESULTS A total of 68 encounters with drain removal were included (at-home: 28%, n = 19; in-clinic: 72%, n = 49), with both groups having similar demographics, except for age (median age of telemedicine-based at-home: 50 vs in-clinic: 62 years, p = 0.03). Patients who opted into at-home, patient-performed drain removal were more likely to have drain removal occur earlier (9 vs 13 days for in-clinic, p < 0.001). In-clinic removal resulted in increased encounters with surgical nursing staff and increased travel time, with no significant difference in complication burden. CONCLUSIONS Patient-performed at-home drain removal is safe and allows for more timely drain removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan O Bray
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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14
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In-Person Versus Video Preoperative Visit: A Randomized Clinical Trial. UROGYNECOLOGY (HAGERSTOWN, MD.) 2023; 29:58-66. [PMID: 36548105 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000001259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE This study further supports virtual visits for gynecologic preoperative care. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to determine if preoperative video visits are noninferior to in-person visits in pelvic reconstructive surgery. Secondary objectives are as follows: patient satisfaction, convenience, visit duration, total perioperative visits, and patient travel time/distance. STUDY DESIGN Noninferiority randomized-controlled trial of patients undergoing pelvic reconstructive surgery randomized to in-person or video counseling. The primary outcome was a composite score on the Preoperative Preparedness Questionnaire. RESULTS Demographics were similar except for higher body mass index (BMI) in the video group (29.5 vs 26.3; P = 0.01), and fewer patients in the video group used text messaging for health care delivery (40.7% vs 59.3%, P = 0.04). Video visits were noninferior to in-person visits in Preoperative Preparedness Questionnaire scores (62.5 ± 4.6 vs 63.0 ± 3.6; difference = 0.5; 95% confidence interval, -0.8, □). There was no difference in "strongly agree" response to question 11, "Overall, I feel prepared for my upcoming surgery" (79.6% vs 88.9%, P = 0.19). Satisfaction was higher for video visits based on composite Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Surgical Care Survey scores (31.3 ± 1.5 vs 30.5 ± 2, P = 0.02). Video visits were more convenient (100% vs 85.2%, P < 0.01), of shorter duration for patients (39.3 ± 14.0 minutes vs 55.9 ± 18.9 minutes; P < 0.01), and similar length for health care providers (28.8 ± 9.6 minutes vs 28.2 ± 9.8 minutes; P = 0.77). The video visit group had fewer office visits (2.0 vs 3.0, P < 0.01) and traveled 66 minutes ( P < 0.01) and 28 miles ( P < 0.01) less. CONCLUSION Preoperative video visits are noninferior to in-person visits for preparing patients for pelvic reconstructive surgery.
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15
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Iqbal E, Bray JO, Sutton T, Akhter M, Orenstein SB, Nikolian VC. Perioperative Telemedicine Utilization Among Geriatric Patients Being Evaluated for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction and Hernia Repair. Telemed J E Health 2022. [PMID: 36255440 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Perioperative telemedicine services have increasingly been utilized for ambulatory care, although concerns exist regarding the feasibility of virtual consultations for older patients. We sought to review telemedicine encounters for geriatric patients evaluated at a hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction center. Methods: A retrospective review of telemedicine encounters between May 2020 and May 2021 was performed. Patient characteristics and encounter-specific outcomes were compared among geriatric (older than65 years old) and nongeriatric patients. Clinical care plans for encounters were reviewed to determine potential downstream care utilization. Patient-derived benefits related to time saved in travel time was calculated using geo-mapping. Outcomes for postoperative encounters were assessed to determine if complication rates differed between geriatric and nongeriatric populations. Results: A total of 313 telemedicine encounters (geriatric: 41.9%) were conducted among 251 patients. Reviewing preoperative factors for hernia care, geriatric patients presented with higher rates of recurrent or incisional hernias (87.9% vs. 70.7%, p < 0.01). Potential travel time was longer for geriatric patients (104 min vs. 42 min, p = 0.03) in the preoperative setting. No differences in clinical care plans were found. Only 8.6% of preoperative encounters resulted in recommendations for supplemental in-person evaluation. Operative plans were coordinated for 42.5% of all preoperative telemedicine encounters. There was no difference in complication rate between geriatric and nongeriatric patients (p > 0.05) in the postoperative setting, with no complications directly attributable to telemedicine-based care. Conclusions: Telemedicine-based evaluations appear to function well among geriatric patients seeking hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction. Clinical care plans rendered following telemedicine-based encounters are appropriate with a low rate of supplemental in-person evaluations. Telemedicine use resulted in significantly more time saved in commuting to and from clinic for geriatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emaad Iqbal
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jordan O Bray
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Thomas Sutton
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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16
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Miceli L, Dal Mas F, Biancuzzi H, Bednarova R, Rizzardo A, Cobianchi L, Holmboe ES. Doctor@Home: Through a Telemedicine Co-production and Co-learning Journey. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2022; 37:1236-1238. [PMID: 33442862 PMCID: PMC7806439 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-020-01945-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Telemedicine and remote visits are becoming more and more popular in several medical disciplines, including oncology. The Covid-19 pandemic has enhanced the need to continue to meet patients' ambulatory care necessities ensuring social distancing and limiting the access to clinical facilities. The National Cancer Institute of Aviano, Italy, has recently launched a program called "Doctor @ Home" (D@H). The pillars of the program are the co-production of the oncological care and the co-learning approach, which sees the clinical staff "hand in hand" with patients to maximize the outcome of the care, trying to take advantage of the new tools offered by modern technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Miceli
- Department of Pain Medicine, IRCCS C.R.O. National Cancer Institute of Aviano, Aviano, Italy
| | - Francesca Dal Mas
- Lincoln International Business School, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
- Ipazia, International Observatory on Gender Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Helena Biancuzzi
- Ipazia, International Observatory on Gender Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Rym Bednarova
- Pain medicine, Hospital of Latisana (ASUFC), Latisana, Italy
| | | | - Lorenzo Cobianchi
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic & Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Corso Str. Nuova, 65, 27100, Pavia, PV, Italy.
- General Surgery Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Eric S Holmboe
- Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, Chicago, IL, USA
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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17
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Uppal A, Kothari AN, Scally CP, Roland CL, Bednarski BK, Katz MHG, Vauthey JN, Chang GJ. Adoption of Telemedicine for Postoperative Follow-Up After Inpatient Cancer-Related Surgery. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:e1091-e1099. [PMID: 35263166 DOI: 10.1200/op.21.00819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant changes in health care delivery, including the rapid adoption of telemedicine across multiple specialties and practice environments. This includes postoperative visits (POV), despite limited data on outcomes following these telemedicine POV. We sought to determine whether these types of visits successfully identify and address postoperative complications when compared with in-person POV. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing elective inpatient cancer-related surgery from March 2020 through December 2020. The exposure variable was type of POV (telemedicine v in-person). The primary outcome was unplanned hospital readmission within 90 days, and secondary outcomes included 30-day readmission, length of stay of first readmission, and mortality. RESULTS Five-hundred thirty-five patients underwent elective inpatient operations and met our inclusion criteria. Of these, 98 (18.5%) had an initial telemedicine POV. There was no difference in 90-day readmission on the basis of POV type (16.3% telemedicine v 16.5% in-person, P = .99). Reasons for readmission did not differ between patients who underwent a telemedicine POV compared with in-person POV (all P > .05). After adjustment for patients' demographic and clinical factors, telemedicine POV was not associated with 90-day readmission (odds ratio, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.43 to 1.70; P = .77). CONCLUSION Telemedicine POV use adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic did not increase risk of readmission when compared with in-person visits following inpatient oncologic surgery. These data can help inform policy on the continued use and application of telemedicine after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhineet Uppal
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Division of Surgery, Houston, TX
| | - Anai N Kothari
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Surgical Oncology, Division of Surgery, Houston, TX.,Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Madison, WI
| | - Christopher P Scally
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Surgical Oncology, Division of Surgery, Houston, TX
| | - Christina L Roland
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Surgical Oncology, Division of Surgery, Houston, TX
| | - Brian K Bednarski
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Division of Surgery, Houston, TX
| | - Matthew H G Katz
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Surgical Oncology, Division of Surgery, Houston, TX
| | - Jean-Nicholas Vauthey
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Surgical Oncology, Division of Surgery, Houston, TX
| | - George J Chang
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Division of Surgery, Houston, TX
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- Data-Driven Determinants for COVID-19 Oncology Discovery Effort (D3CODE) Team, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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18
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Bray JO, Sutton TL, Akhter MS, Iqbal E, Orenstein SB, Nikolian VC. Outcomes of Telemedicine-Based Consultation among Rural Patients Referred for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction and Hernia Repair. J Am Coll Surg 2022; 235:128-137. [PMID: 35703970 DOI: 10.1097/xcs.0000000000000213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perioperative telemedicine use has increased as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and may improve access to surgical care. However, studies assessing outcomes in populations at risk for digital-health disparities are lacking. We sought to characterize the pre- and postoperative outcomes for rural patient populations being assessed for hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction with telehealth. METHODS Patients undergoing telehealth evaluation from March 2020 through May 2021 were identified. Rurality was identified by zip code of residence. Rural and urban patients were compared based on demographics, diagnosis, treatment plan, and visit characteristics and outcomes. Downstream care use related to supplementary in-person referral, and diagnostic testing was assessed. RESULTS Three hundred-seventy-three (196 preoperative, 177 postoperative) telehealth encounters occurred during the study period (rural: 28% of all encounters). Rural patients were more likely to present with recurrent or incisional hernias (90.0 vs 72.7%, p = 0.02) and advanced comorbidities (American Society of Anesthesiologists status score > 2: 73.1 vs 52.1%, p = 0.009). Rural patients derived significant benefits related to time saved commuting, with median distances of 299 and 293 km for pre- and postoperative encounters, respectively. Downstream care use was 6.1% (N = 23) for additional in-person evaluations and 3.4% (N = 13) for further diagnostic testing, with no difference by rurality. CONCLUSIONS Perioperative telehealth can safely be implemented for rural populations seeking hernia repair and may be an effective method for reducing disparities. Downstream care use related to additional in-person referral or diagnostic testing was minimally impacted in both the preoperative and postoperative settings. These findings suggest that rurality should not deter surgeons from providing telemedicine-based surgical consultation for hernia repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan O Bray
- From the Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR (Bray, Sutton, Akhter, Orenstein, Nikolian)
| | - Thomas L Sutton
- From the Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR (Bray, Sutton, Akhter, Orenstein, Nikolian)
| | - Mudassir S Akhter
- From the Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR (Bray, Sutton, Akhter, Orenstein, Nikolian)
| | - Emaad Iqbal
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY (Iqbal)
| | - Sean B Orenstein
- From the Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR (Bray, Sutton, Akhter, Orenstein, Nikolian)
| | - Vahagn C Nikolian
- From the Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR (Bray, Sutton, Akhter, Orenstein, Nikolian)
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19
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Telemedicine-based new patient consultations for hernia repair and advanced abdominal wall reconstruction. Hernia 2022; 26:1687-1694. [PMID: 35723771 PMCID: PMC9207428 DOI: 10.1007/s10029-022-02624-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Telemedicine has emerged as a viable option to in-person visits for the evaluation and management of surgical patients. Increased integration of telemedicine has allowed for greater access to care for specific patient populations but relative outcomes are unstudied. Given these limitations, we sought to evaluate the efficacy of telemedicine-based new patient preoperative encounters in comparison to in-person encounters. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of adult patients undergoing new patient evaluations from April 2020 to October 2021. Telemedicine visits consist of both video and telephone-based encounters. Visit types, patient demographics, preoperative diagnosis, travel time to the hospital, and prior imaging availability were reviewed. Results A total of 276 new patient encounters were conducted (n = 108, 39% telemedicine). Indications for evaluation included inguinal hernia (n = 81, 30%), ventral hernia (n = 149, 54%) and groin or abdominal pain (n = 30, 11%). Patients undergoing telehealth evaluations were more likely to have greater travel distance to the hospital (91 km vs 29 km, p = 0.002) and have CT image-confirmed diagnoses at the initial visit (73 vs 47%, p < 0.001). Patients who were evaluated for a recurrent or incisional hernia were more likely to be seen through a telemedicine encounter (69 vs 45%, p < 0.001). Conclusions We report the efficacy of telemedicine-based consultations for new patient preoperative evaluations related to hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction. Telemedicine is a useful modality for preoperative evaluation of new patients with hernia and advanced abdominal wall reconstruction needs. Understanding this patient population will allow us to optimize telemedicine encounters for new patients and improve access to care for patients in remote locations.
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20
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Nikolian VC, Stowers J, Brasel KJ. Technology and Surgical Training-Friend or Foe? JAMA Surg 2022; 157:561-562. [PMID: 35583865 DOI: 10.1001/jamasurg.2022.0640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - John Stowers
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland.,Portland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Portland, Oregon
| | - Karen J Brasel
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
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21
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Metzger GA, Cooper J, Lutz C, Jatana KR, Nishimura L, Patterson KN, Deans KJ, Minneci PC, Halaweish I. Examining the Utility of Preoperative Telemedicine Care Across Multiple Pediatric Surgery Disciplines. J Surg Res 2022; 277:138-147. [PMID: 35489219 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telemedicine use within pediatric surgery fields has been growing, but research on the utility of remote evaluation in the perioperative period remains scarce. The objective of this study was to examine the utility of perioperative telemedicine care for the pediatric patient by evaluating the outcomes following completion of an outpatient appointment with a surgical provider. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective chart review of all patients who completed a telemedicine appointment with a provider across nine pediatric surgery divisions, without a limitation based on patient-specific characteristics or telemedicine platform. We examined the result of the initial telemedicine appointment and the outcome of any surgical procedure that was performed as a result. RESULTS A total of 803 patients were evaluated by telemedicine during the study period. Of the 164 encounters (20.2%) that were followed by a surgery, nearly 70% were performed using a video. There was no discordance in the preoperative and postoperative diagnoses for more than 98% of patients. Nearly 25% of operations were followed by at least a 1-night hospital stay and 6.7% of patients developed a postoperative complication. CONCLUSIONS Telemedicine is a safe tool for evaluating pediatric patients in the preoperative and postoperative phases of care and offers potential value for families seeking an alternative to the traditional in-person appointment. Ongoing support will require permanent legislative changes aimed at ensuring comparable compensation and the development of strategies to adapt the outpatient healthcare model to better accommodate the evolving requirements of remotely evaluating and treating pediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory A Metzger
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jennifer Cooper
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Carley Lutz
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kris R Jatana
- Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Leah Nishimura
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kelli N Patterson
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Katherine J Deans
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Peter C Minneci
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ihab Halaweish
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.
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22
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Roy MG, Dinnell DEG, Sequitin JD, Davies LW, Tung JS. Family satisfaction with telemedicine follow-up after pediatric plastic surgery. JAAPA 2022; 35:53-55. [PMID: 34985007 DOI: 10.1097/01.jaa.0000805836.59652.ac] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE One issue faced at institutions that serve a vast area is patients' ability to travel for perioperative care. Telemedicine is an innovative way of providing care while removing the inconvenience of travel or the hindrance of cost associated with travel. We initiated telemedicine as an option for certain postoperative encounters and assessed patient family satisfaction with this novel approach. METHODS Our practice offers telemedicine visits to patients who have had simple surgical procedures, identified by a fixed list of CPT codes. Visits are scheduled 7 to 14 days after surgery. Families completed a satisfaction survey after their encounter. RESULTS A pilot program was initiated from January 2019 to March 2020 using this method of postoperative follow-up. The initial response from families (N = 60) was extremely positive. CONCLUSION We anticipate the option for telemedicine visits will make postoperative follow-ups more amendable to families, increase adherence rates, and increase access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle G Roy
- At Texas Children's Hospital in Houston, Michelle G. Roy, Diana E. Guillen Dinnell, Jeromie D. Sequitin , and Lesley W. Davies are assistant professors and Jessica S. Tung is an instructor. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise
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Outcomes for audio-only and video-based preoperative encounters for abdominal wall reconstruction and hernia consultations. Am J Surg 2022; 224:698-702. [DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Cascella M, Marinangeli F, Vittori A, Scala C, Piccinini M, Braga A, Miceli L, Vellucci R. Open Issues and Practical Suggestions for Telemedicine in Chronic Pain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312416. [PMID: 34886140 PMCID: PMC8656645 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Telemedicine represents a major opportunity to facilitate continued assistance for patients with chronic pain and improve their access to care. Preliminary data show that an improvement can be expected of the monitoring, treatment adherence, assessment of treatment effect including the emotional distress associated with pain. Moreover, this approach seems to be convenient and cost-effective, and particularly suitable for personalized treatment. Nevertheless, several open issues must be highlighted such as identification of assessment tools, implementation of monitoring instruments, and ability to evaluate personal needs and expectations. Open questions exist, such as how to evaluate the need for medical intervention and interventional procedures, and how to define when a clinical examination is required for certain conditions. In this context, it is necessary to establish dynamic protocols that provide the right balance between face-to-face visits and telemedicine. Useful tips are provided to start an efficient experience. More data are needed to develop precise operating procedures. In the meantime, the first experiences from such settings can pave the way to initiate effective care pathways in chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cascella
- Division of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Istituto Nazionale Tumori—IRCCS—Fondazione Pascale, 80131 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Franco Marinangeli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Vittori
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, ARCO, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +39-06-68592397
| | - Cristina Scala
- UOC Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy, Senigallia Hospital, 60123 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Massimo Piccinini
- Anesthesia, Critical Care, Palliative Medicine and Pain Therapy Service, L’Aquila ASL1 Abruzzo, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | | | - Luca Miceli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pain Medicine, IRCCS CRO of Aviano, 33081 Aviano, Italy;
| | - Renato Vellucci
- Pain and Palliative Care Clinic, University Hospital of Careggi, 50121 Florence, Italy;
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The emergency department plays a common and critical role in the treatment of postoperative patients. However, many quality improvement databases fail to record these interactions. As such, our understanding of the prevalence and etiology of postoperative emergency department visits in contemporary colorectal surgery is limited. Visits with potentially preventable etiologies represent a significant target for quality improvement, particularly in the current era of rapidly evolving postoperative and ambulatory care patterns. OBJECTIVE We aimed to characterize postoperative emergency department visits and identify factors associated with these visits for potential intervention. DESIGN This was a retrospective cohort study. SETTINGS The study was conducted at an academic medical center. PATIENTS Consecutive patients undergoing colectomy or proctectomy within the division of colorectal surgery at an academic medical center between 2014 and 2018 were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Frequency and indication for emergency department visits, as well as clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with emergency department visits in the postoperative period, were included measures. RESULTS From the 1763 individual operations, there were 207 emergency department visits from 199 patients (11%) within 30 days of discharge. Two thirds of emergency department visits led to readmission. Median (interquartile range) time to presentation was 8 days (4-16 d). Median time in the emergency department was 7.8 hours (6.0-10.1 h). One third of visits were identified as potentially preventable, most commonly for pain (17%) and stoma complications (excluding dehydration; 13%). A primary language other than English was associated with any postoperative emergency department visit risk ratio of 2.7 (95% CI, 1.3-5.3), as well as a preventable visit risk ratio of 3.6 (95% CI, 1.7-8.0). LIMITATIONS This was a single-center study and a retrospective review. CONCLUSIONS One third of emergency department visits after colorectal surgery are potentially preventable. Special attention should be directed toward those patients who do not speak English as a primary language. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B648. SE PUEDEN EVITAR LAS VISITAS AL SERVICIO DE URGENCIA DESPUS DE UNA CIRUGA COLORECTAL ANTECEDENTES:Las unidades de emergencia tienen un rol fundamental en el periodo posterior a una cirugía. Sin embargo muchos de los registros en las bases de datos de estas secciones no son de buena calidad. Por esto analizar la prevalencia y etiología de las visitas postoperatorias en cirugía colorectal resulta ser bastante limitada. Para lograr una mejoría en la calidad es fundamental analizar las causas potencialmente evitables, especialmente al considerer la rapida evolucion de los parametros de medición actuales.OBJETIVO:Nuestro objetivo es caracterizar las visitas postoperatorias al servicio de urgencias e identificar los factores asociados potencialmente evitables.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.AJUSTE:Centro médico académico, 2014-2018.PACIENTES:Pacientes consecutivos sometidos a colectomía o proctectomía dentro de la división de cirugía colorrectal en un centro médico académico entre 2014 y 2018.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Frecuencia e indicación de las visitas al servicio de urgencias en el period postoperatorio: factores clínicos y sociodemográficos.RESULTADOS:De 1763 operaciones individuales, hubo 207 visitas al departamento de emergencias de 199 pacientes (11%) en los 30 días posteriores al alta. Dos tercios de las visitas al servicio de urgencias dieron lugar a readmisiones. La mediana [rango intercuartílico] de tiempo hasta la presentación fue de 8 [4-16] días. La mediana de tiempo en el servicio de urgencias fue de 7,8 [6-10,1] horas. Un tercio de las visitas se identificaron como potencialmente evitables, más comúnmente dolor (17%) y complicaciones del estoma (excluida la deshidratación) (13%). En los pacientes con poco manejo del inglés se asoció con una mayor frecuencia razón de visitas al departamento de emergencias posoperatorias [IC del 95%] 2,7 [1,3-5,3], así como opetancialmente evitables con un RR de 3,6 [1,7-8,0].LIMITACIONES:Estudio de un solo centro y revisión retrospectiva.CONCLUSIÓN:Al menos un tercio de las visitas al servicio de urgencias después de una cirugía colorrectal son potencialmente evitables. Se debe prestar especial atención a los pacientes que no hablan inglés como idioma materno. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B648.
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Iqbal EJ, Sutton T, Akther MS, Samhan A, MacDonald S, Coleman JR, Turner PL, Nikolian VC. Current Surgical Trainee Perceptions and Experiences in Telehealth. Telemed J E Health 2021; 28:789-797. [PMID: 34637650 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2021.0237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Broad expansion of telehealth technologies has been implemented during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic to allow for physical distancing and limitation of viral transmission within health care facilities. Although telehealth has been studied for its impact on patients, payors, and practitioners, its educational impact is largely unstudied. To better understand the trainee experience and perception of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted a survey of the membership of the American College of Surgeons Resident and Associate Society (RAS). Methods: An anonymous survey was sent to members of RAS. Descriptive analysis was used to report experiences and perceptions. Chi-square analysis was used to compare cohorts with and without exposure to telehealth. Results: Of the 465 RAS respondents, 292 (62.8%) reported knowledge of telehealth technologies at their institutions. The majority of these respondents experienced a decrease in in-person clinic volume (94.4%) and an associated increase in virtual clinic volume (95.7%) related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Trainee integration into telehealth workflows increased drastically from prepandemic levels (11% vs. 54.5%, p < 0.001). Likelihood of trainee exposure to telehealth was associated with university-based training programs or larger program size. Trainees demonstrated a desire for more integration and development of curricula. Conclusions: These data serve as the first description of surgical trainee experience with, and opinion of, telehealth. Trainees recognize the importance of their integration and training in telehealth. These results should be used to guide the development of workflows and curricula that integrate trainees into telemedicine clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emaad J Iqbal
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Thomas Sutton
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Mudassir S Akther
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Ashraf Samhan
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Stephanie MacDonald
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Julia R Coleman
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Patricia L Turner
- American College of Surgeons, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Vahagn C Nikolian
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Nikolian VC, Akhter M, Iqbal EJ, Sutton T, Samhan A, Orenstein SB, Rosen MJ, Poulose BK. A National Evaluation of Surgeon Experiences in Telemedicine for the Care of Hernia and Abdominal Core Health Patients. World J Surg 2021; 46:76-83. [PMID: 34604922 PMCID: PMC8487675 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-021-06332-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background Surgeons are increasingly utilizing telemedicine to provide perioperative services to patients. Safety, satisfaction, and feasibility of these programs in general populations have been established, but it is unclear how telemedicine can be integrated into subspecialty care. We report results of a national survey related to telehealth practices among members of the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative (ACHQC).
Methods Survey responses were analyzed to determine current strategies in telemedicine utilization. Surgeon preferences, perceptions of validity, and identified barriers to implementation of telemedicine were assessed. Results Forty surgeons within the ACHQC responded, with 90% of respondents reporting use of telemedicine to deliver perioperative care to patients with hernias and abdominal core health concerns. Surgeons appeared to be more comfortable managing preoperative patients with image-confirmed diagnoses of hernias. Surgeons were universally more comfortable delivering postoperative care via telemedicine. Connectivity, patient engagement, and reimbursement were identified as potential barriers to expansion of telemedicine. Seventy-eight percent of respondents reported that they would increase telemedicine utilization if current regulations were maintained in the future. Conclusions This study found that hernia specialists are utilizing telemedicine at a higher rate than before the COVID-19 pandemic, with surgeons reporting interest in continued use of this modality beyond the pandemic. These findings suggest that future work in telemedicine optimization may improve the quality of care that can be delivered to patients with abdominal core health concerns. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00268-021-06332-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahagn C Nikolian
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail Code L 233A, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Mudassir Akhter
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail Code L 233A, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Emaad J Iqbal
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Thomas Sutton
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail Code L 233A, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Ashraf Samhan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail Code L 233A, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Sean B Orenstein
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail Code L 233A, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Michael J Rosen
- Center for Abdominal Core Health, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Benjamin K Poulose
- Center for Abdominal Core Health, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Process of Posthospital Care Involving Telemedicine Solutions for Patients after Total Hip Arthroplasty. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph181910135. [PMID: 34639436 PMCID: PMC8508342 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The importance of telemedicine technologies around the world has been growing for many years, and it turned out to be a particularly important issue for conducting some medical procedures during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. It is necessary to create interdisciplinary teams to design and implement improved procedures using telemedicine tools. The aim of the article is to develop original, improved posthospital patient care process after total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the use of telemedicine technologies. In the study, a literature review and empirical research were used. The conducted research resulted in the designing an original posthospital patient care process after THA that uses telematics technologies. Due to the use of analyzed telemedicine technologies, the designed patient care process brings a possibility to increase the patient's safety by monitoring life parameters, allowing for regular, remote contact with specialists and to be supervised remotely. All this may contribute to shortening the convalescence time, reducing the risk of complications, as well as reducing treatment costs. The designed model is ready for further clinical research with the participation of medical staff, patients after THA and patient caregivers.
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Harkey K, Connor CD, Wang H, Kaiser N, Matthews BD, Kelz R, Reinke CE. View from the Patient Perspective: Mixed-Methods Analysis of Post-Discharge Virtual Visits in a Randomized Controlled Trial. J Am Coll Surg 2021; 233:593-605.e4. [PMID: 34509613 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2021.07.688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virtual visits (VVs) are being used increasingly to provide patient-centered care and have undergone rapid uptake during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our aim was to compare satisfaction and convenience of virtual post-discharge follow-up for surgical patients and qualitatively analyze free-text survey responses in a randomized controlled noninferiority trial. Patient satisfaction with VVs has not been evaluated previously in a randomized controlled trial and few mixed-methods analyses have been done to understand barriers and facilitators to post-discharge visits. STUDY DESIGN Patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy or cholecystectomy were randomized to VV or in-person visit (2:1). Surveys with 11 multiple-choice and 2 open-ended questions evaluated patient satisfaction and convenience. Univariate analysis compared responses to the multiple-choice questions and qualitative content analysis evaluated open-ended responses. RESULTS Of 442 enrolled patients, 289 completed their postoperative visit and were sent surveys (55% response rate). Patients were categorized as VV (n = 135), crossover (randomized to virtual but completed in-person; n = 53), and in-person visits (n = 101). Patient-reported satisfaction was similar, but convenience was higher for VV patients. Open-ended responses (72 VVs, 14 crossovers, and 41 in-person visits) were qualitatively analyzed. In all groups, patient experience was influenced by quality of care, efficiency, and convenience. Barriers were different for virtual and in-person appointments. CONCLUSIONS We found that quality of, and access to, care-whether in person or virtual-remained critical components of patient satisfaction. VVs address many barriers associated with in-person visits and were more convenient, but can present additional technological barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - C Danielle Connor
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC
| | | | | | | | - Rachel Kelz
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA
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Abstract
Telemedicine represents an area of rapid growth in anesthesiology. Remote preoperative evaluation is associated with high patient and physician satisfaction scores, reduced patient travel and wait times, and similar procedure cancellation rates compared with in-person clinic evaluation. Preoperative tele-evaluation has facilitated a return to normal function during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Intraoperatively, remote vital sign monitoring and telecommunications technology combined with a care team model allows provision of expert care in areas experiencing a shortage of anesthesiologists. Virtual intensive care units provide overflow capability for postoperative patients, whereas patient smartphones can reduce the need for in-person evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Harter Bridges
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, 25 Courtenay Drive, Suite 4200, MSC 240, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
| | - Julie Ryan McSwain
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, 25 Courtenay Drive, Suite 4200, MSC 240, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
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Fong ZV, Hashimoto DA, Jin G, Haynes AB, Perez N, Qadan M, Ferrone CR, Castillo CFD, Warshaw AL, Lillemoe KD, Traeger LN, Chang DC. Simulated Volume-Based Regionalization of Complex Procedures: Impact on Spatial Access to Care. Ann Surg 2021; 274:312-318. [PMID: 31449139 PMCID: PMC7032992 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000003574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study simulates the regionalization of pancreatectomies to assess its impact on spatial access in terms of patient driving times. BACKGROUND Although policies to regionalize complex procedures to high-volume centers may improve outcomes, the impact on patient access is unknown. METHODS Patients who underwent pancreatectomies from 2005 to 2014 were identified from California's statewide database. Round-trip driving times between patients' home ZIP code and hospital addresses were calculated via Google Maps. Regionalization was simulated by eliminating hospitals performing <20 pancreatectomies/yr, and reassigning patients to the next closest hospital that satisfied the volume threshold. Sensitivity analyses were performed for New York and Medicare patients to assess for influence of geography and insurance coverage, respectively. RESULTS Of 13,317 pancreatectomies, 6335 (47.6%) were performed by hospitals with <20 cases/yr. Patients traveled a median of 49.8 minutes [interquartile range (IQR) 30.8-96.2] per round-trip. A volume-restriction policy would increase median round-trip driving time by 24.1 minutes (IQR 4.5-53.5). Population in-hospital mortality rates were estimated to decrease from 6.7% to 2.8% (P < 0.001). Affected patients were more likely to be racial minorities (44.6% vs 36.5% of unaffected group, P < 0.001) and covered by Medicaid or uninsured (16.3% vs 9.8% of unaffected group, P < 0.001). Sensitivity analyses revealed a 17.8 minutes increment for patients in NY (IQR 0.8-47.4), and 27.0 minutes increment for Medicare patients (IQR 6.2-57.1). CONCLUSIONS A policy that limits access to low-volume pancreatectomy hospitals will increase round-trip driving time by 24 minutes, but up to 54 minutes for 25% of patients. Population mortality rates may improve by 1.5%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Ven Fong
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | | | - Ginger Jin
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Alex B Haynes
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Numa Perez
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Motaz Qadan
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | | | | | - Andrew L Warshaw
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Keith D Lillemoe
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Lara N Traeger
- Behavioral Medicine Service, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - David C Chang
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
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Mancini R, Bartolo M, Pattaro G, Ioni L, Picconi T, Pernazza G. The role of telemedicine in the postoperative home monitoring after robotic colo-rectal cancer surgery: a preliminary single center experience. Updates Surg 2021; 74:171-178. [PMID: 34313956 DOI: 10.1007/s13304-021-01132-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The telemedicine studies, takes care and prevents diseases at distance basing on the interaction among physicians and patients remotely. Few data are available on its application to early postoperative after surgery. The endpoints of our preliminary experience were the detection, as primary, of feasibility and safety of home telemonitoring after robotic colo-rectal resection and, as secondary, perception and satisfaction of the patients. From December 2019 to March 2020, at the Division of Robotic Surgery of San Giovanni Hospital of Rome, 20 of 29 colorectal cancer patients, submitted to Robotic resection, were prospectively included in a program of postoperative home telemonitoring. Telemonitoring was considered feasible if at least 75% of data were available and safe if morbidity ≤ II by Clavien-Dindo classification. Perception and patients' satisfaction were evaluated through a dedicated questionnaire. Out of 20 patients, the median age was 68 years, overall postoperative morbidity was 30%, all events classified Clavien-Dindo Grade I or II. Only 2 patients were corresponded to surgical consult without readmission during home telemonitoring. Compliance of patients was > 80%, overall grade of satisfaction was very high: 4.2 as median (range 0-5). In this preliminary study, the procedures of postoperative home telemonitoring were feasible and safe and high rate of patients' satisfaction was observed. The telemedicine could enhance the role of robotic technique in decrease the hospital stay and improving postoperative recovery after surgery. Further structured prospective trial are needed to validate the routine application of telemedicine in healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaello Mancini
- Division of Robotic Surgery of San Giovanni Hospital of Rome, Via dell'Amba Aradam, 8, 00184, Rome, Italy.
| | - Michelangelo Bartolo
- Service of Telemedicine of San Giovanni Hospital of Rome, Via dell'Amba Aradam, 8, 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Giada Pattaro
- Division of Robotic Surgery of San Giovanni Hospital of Rome, Via dell'Amba Aradam, 8, 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Ioni
- Division of Robotic Surgery of San Giovanni Hospital of Rome, Via dell'Amba Aradam, 8, 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Tullio Picconi
- Division of Robotic Surgery of San Giovanni Hospital of Rome, Via dell'Amba Aradam, 8, 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Graziano Pernazza
- Division of Robotic Surgery of San Giovanni Hospital of Rome, Via dell'Amba Aradam, 8, 00184, Rome, Italy
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Freiman S, Schwabe MT, Barrack RL, Nunley RM, Clohisy JC, Lawrie CM. Telemedicine for patients undergoing arthroplasty : access, ability, and preference. Bone Joint J 2021; 103-B:98-102. [PMID: 34192903 DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.103b7.bjj-2020-2420.r1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The purpose of this study was to determine the access to and ability to use telemedicine technology in adult patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and to determine associations with the socioeconomic characteristics of the patients, including age, sex, race, and education. We also sought to understand the patients' perceived benefits, risks, and preferences when dealing with telemedicine. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional survey involving patients awaiting primary THA and TKA by one of six surgeons at a single academic institution. Patients were included and called for a telephone-administered survey if their surgery was scheduled to be between 23 March and 2 June 2020, and were aged > 18 years. RESULTS The response rate was 52% (189 of 363 patients). A total of 170 patients (90.4%) reported using the internet, 177 (94.1%) reported owning a device capable of videoconferencing, and 143 (76.1%) had participated in a video call in the past year. When asked for their preferred method for a consultation, 155 (82.8%) and 26 (13.9%) ranked in-person and a videoconference as their first choice, respectively. The perceived benefits of telemedicine consultations included reduced travel to appointments (165 (88.2%) agreed) and reduced cost of attending appointments (123 (65.8%) agreed). However, patients were concerned that they would not establish the same patient-physician connection (100 (53.8%) agreed), and would not receive the same level of care (52 (33.2%) agreed) using telemedicine consultations compared with in-person consultations. CONCLUSION Most patients undergoing arthroplasty have access to and are capable of using the technology required for telemedicine consultations. However, they still prefer in-person consultations due to concerns that they will not establish the same patient-physician connection and will not receive the same level of care, despite the benefits of reducing the time spent in travelling and the cost of attending appointments, and the appointments being easier to attend. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):98-102.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Freiman
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Maria T Schwabe
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Robert L Barrack
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ryan M Nunley
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - John C Clohisy
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Charles M Lawrie
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Eustache J, El-Kefraoui C, Ekmekjian T, Latimer E, Lee L. Do postoperative telemedicine interventions with a communication feature reduce emergency department visits and readmissions?-a systematic review and meta-analysis. Surg Endosc 2021; 35:5889-5904. [PMID: 34231068 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-021-08607-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Emergency department (ED) visits and readmissions after surgery are common and represent a significant cost-burden on the healthcare system. A notable portion of these unplanned visits are the result of expected complications or normal recovery after surgery, suggesting that improved coordination and communication in the outpatient setting could potentially prevent these. Telemedicine can improve patient-physician communication and as such may have a role in limiting unplanned emergency department visits and readmissions in postoperative patients. METHODS Major electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials and cohort studies in surgical patients examining the effect of postoperative telemedicine interventions with a communication feature on 30-day readmissions and emergency department visits as compared to current standard postoperative follow-up. All surgical subspecialties were included. Two independent reviewers assessed eligibility, extracted data, and evaluated risk of bias using standardized tools. Our primary outcomes of interest were 30-day ED visits and readmissions. Our secondary outcomes were patient satisfaction with the intervention. RESULTS 29 studies were included in the final analysis. Fourteen studies were RCTs, and the remaining fifteen were cohort studies. Eighteen studies reported 30-day ED visit as an outcome. There was no overall reduction in 30-day ED visit in the telemedicine group (RR: 0.89, 95%CI: 0.70-1.12). Twenty-two studies reported 30-day readmission as an outcome. The overall pooled estimate did not show a difference in this outcome (RR: 0.90, 95%CI: 0.74-1.09). Fifteen studies reported a metric of patient satisfaction regarding utilization of the telemedicine intervention. All studies demonstrated high levels of satisfaction (> 80%) with the telemedicine intervention. DISCUSSION This review fails to demonstrate a clear reduction ED visits and readmissions to support use of a telemedicine intervention across the board. This may be in part explained by significant heterogeneity in the proportions of potentially preventable visits in each surgical specialty. As such, targeting interventions to specific surgical settings may prove most useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Eustache
- Department of Surgery, McGill University Health Centre, Glen Campus-DS1.3310, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, QC, H3G 1A4, Canada.,Steinberg-Bernstein Centre for Minimally Invasive Surgery and Innovation, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Charbel El-Kefraoui
- Steinberg-Bernstein Centre for Minimally Invasive Surgery and Innovation, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Taline Ekmekjian
- Medical Libraries, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Eric Latimer
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lawrence Lee
- Department of Surgery, McGill University Health Centre, Glen Campus-DS1.3310, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, QC, H3G 1A4, Canada. .,Steinberg-Bernstein Centre for Minimally Invasive Surgery and Innovation, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Powers RJ, Mokdad AA, Pezzin LE, Nattinger AB, Oldham KT, Van Arendonk KJ. Disparities in utilization of outpatient surgical care among children. Surgery 2021; 170:1815-1821. [PMID: 34167822 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2021.05.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to quantify disparities in the utilization of outpatient pediatric surgical care and to examine the extent to which neighborhood-level socioeconomic disadvantage is associated with access to care among children. METHODS Clinic "no-shows" were examined among children scheduled from 2017 to 2019 at seven pediatric surgery clinics associated with a tertiary care children's hospital. The association between Area Deprivation Index, a neighborhood-level measure of socioeconomic disadvantage, and other patient factors with clinic no-shows was examined using multivariable logistic regression models. Difficulties in accessing postoperative care in particular were explored in a subgroup analysis of postoperative (within 90 days) clinic visits after appendectomy or inguinal/umbilical hernia repairs. RESULTS Among 10,162 patients, 16% had at least 1 no-show for a clinic appointment. Area Deprivation Index (most deprived decile adjusted odds ratio 3.17, 95% confidence interval 2.20-4.58, P < .001), Black race (adjusted odds ratio 3.30, 95% confidence interval 2.70-4.00, P < .001), and public insurance (adjusted odds ratio 2.75, 95% confidence interval 2.38-3.31, P < .001) were associated with having at least 1 no-show. Similar associations were identified among 2,399 children scheduled for postoperative clinic visits after undergoing appendectomy or inguinal/umbilical hernia repair, among whom 20% were a no-show. CONCLUSION Race, insurance type, and neighborhood-level socioeconomic disadvantage are associated with disparities in utilization of outpatient pediatric surgical care. Challenges accessing routine outpatient care among disadvantaged children may be one mechanism through which disparate outcomes result among children requiring surgical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J Powers
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Ali A Mokdad
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI. https://twitter.com/amokdad12
| | - Liliana E Pezzin
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Ann B Nattinger
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Keith T Oldham
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
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Kemp MT, Williams AM, Brown CS, Liesman DR, Sharma SB, Wakam GK, Biesterveld BE, Wilson JK, Cohen MS, Alam HB. Practical Guidance for Early Identification of Barriers in Surgical Telehealth Clinics. Ann Surg 2021; 273:e268-e270. [PMID: 33214474 PMCID: PMC8119297 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000004633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Early identification of and response to barriers in telehealth settings will help patients receive optimal care. Here, the authors, based on institutional experience, provide advice on such strategies. This guidance focuses on standardizing expectations, assessing technological knowledge and resource access, evaluating understanding and comfort with telehealth, and assessing social support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T. Kemp
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | - Craig S. Brown
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | | | - Glenn K. Wakam
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | - Jesse K. Wilson
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Mark S. Cohen
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Hasan B. Alam
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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Muñoz-Duyos A, Abarca-Alvarado N, Lagares-Tena L, Sobrerroca L, Costa D, Boada M, Ureña D, Delgado-Rivilla S. [Teleconsultation in a coloproctology unit during the COVID-19 pandemic. Preliminary results]. Cir Esp 2021; 99:361-367. [PMID: 38620628 PMCID: PMC7342026 DOI: 10.1016/j.ciresp.2020.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Introduction During the state of alarm established in Spain due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the face-to-face outpatient consultations were cancelled and a telephone consultation was established to follow up coloproctological patients. The objective of this study was to analyse the efficacy of telemedicine (by telephone) in monitoring patients in a coloproctology unit, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method Prospective descriptive study of consecutive patients in a single centre. The result of the teleconsultation was classified as discharge, resolved visit or reprogramming and was analysed by different diagnostic groups. Results From March 19th to April 17th, 2020, the teleconsultation of 190 patients was carried out. The response rate was 94.2% (179). The diagnostic categories of the patients attended were: 51 (26.9%) colorectal neoplasia, 48 (25.3%) proctological pathology, 72 (37.9%) pelvic floor dysfunctions and 19 (10%) other benign pathologies. 105 (55.26%) could be recited as if they had come in person. Eleven (5.8%) patients were discharged. No significant differences were found between the different diagnostic categories and the resolution of the teleconsultation. The reasons for reprogramming are analyzed in the study. Conclusion In the context of a pandemic, teleconsultation has allowed 61% of follow-up visits to be definitively solved, avoiding the reprogramming of 116 patients. The new social and health paradigm after the pandemic will require a rethinking of our healthcare model, and in many aspects, telemedicine can offer tools for this.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Costa
- Hospital Universitari Mútua Terrassa, Tarrasa, España
| | - Mercè Boada
- Hospital Universitari Mútua Terrassa, Tarrasa, España
| | - Dolors Ureña
- Hospital Universitari Mútua Terrassa, Tarrasa, España
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Muñoz-Duyos A, Abarca-Alvarado N, Lagares-Tena L, Sobrerroca L, Costa D, Boada M, Ureña D, Delgado-Rivilla S. Teleconsultation in a coloproctology unit during the COVID-19 pandemic. Preliminary results. CIRUGÍA ESPAÑOLA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2021. [PMID: 32811680 PMCID: PMC8075819 DOI: 10.1016/j.cireng.2021.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction During the state of alarm established in Spain due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the face-to-face outpatient consultations were cancelled and a telephone consultation was established to follow up coloproctological patients. The objective of this study was to analyse the efficacy of telemedicine (by telephone) in monitoring patients in a coloproctology unit, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method Prospective descriptive study of consecutive patients in a single centre. The result of the teleconsultation was classified as discharge, resolved visit or reprogramming and was analysed by different diagnostic groups. Results From March 19th to April 17th, 2020, the teleconsultation of 190 patients was carried out. The response rate was 94.2% (179). The diagnostic categories of the patients attended were: 51 (26.9%) colorectal neoplasia, 48 (25.3%) proctological pathology, 72 (37.9%) pelvic floor dysfunctions and 19 (10%) other benign pathologies. 105 (55.26%) could be recited as if they had come in person. Eleven (5.8%) patients were discharged. No significant differences were found between the different diagnostic categories and the resolution of the teleconsultation. The reasons for reprogramming are analyzed in the study. Conclusion In the context of a pandemic, teleconsultation has allowed 61% of follow-up visits to be definitively solved, avoiding the reprogramming of 116 patients. The new social and health paradigm after the pandemic will require a rethinking of our healthcare model, and in many aspects, telemedicine can offer tools for this.
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Harkey K, Kaiser N, Zhao J, Hetherington T, Gutnik B, Matthews BD, Kelz RR, Reinke CE. Postdischarge Virtual Visits for Low-risk Surgeries: A Randomized Noninferiority Clinical Trial. JAMA Surg 2021; 156:221-228. [PMID: 33439221 DOI: 10.1001/jamasurg.2020.6265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Importance Postdischarge video-based virtual visits are a growing aspect of surgical care and have dramatically increased in the setting of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Objective To evaluate the outcomes of all-cause 30-day hospital encounter proportion among patients who have a postdischarge video-based virtual visit follow-up compared with in-person follow-up. Design, Setting, and Participants Randomized, active, controlled noninferiority trial in an urban setting, including patients from a small community hospital and a large, tertiary care hospital. Patients who underwent minimally invasive appendectomy or cholecystectomy by a group of surgeons who cover emergency general surgery at these 2 hospitals were included. Patients undergoing elective and nonelective procedures were included. Interventions Patients were randomized in a 2:1 fashion to video-based virtual visit or in-person visit. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome is the percentage of patients with 30-day hospital encounter, and we hypothesized that there would not be a significant increase in the 30-day hospital encounter proportion for patients who receive video-based virtual postdischarge care compared with patients who receive standard (in-person) care. Hospital encounter includes emergency department visit, observation, or inpatient admission. Results A total of 1645 patients were screened; 289 patients were randomized to the virtual group and 143 to the in-person group. Fifty-three patients crossed over to the in-person follow-up group. The percentage of patients who had a hospital encounter was noninferior for virtual visits (12.8% vs 13.3% for in-person, Δ 0.5% with 1-sided 95% CI, -∞ to 5.2%). The amount of time patients spent with the clinician (mean of 8.4 minutes virtual vs 7.8 minutes in-person; P = .30) was not different, but the median overall postoperative visit time was 27.5 minutes shorter (95% CI, -33.5 to -24.0). Conclusions and Relevance Postdischarge video-based virtual visits did not increase hospital encounter proportions and provided shorter overall time commitment but equal time with the surgical team member. This information will help surgeons and patients feel more confident in using video-based virtual visits. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03258177.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Harkey
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Nicole Kaiser
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Jing Zhao
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Timothy Hetherington
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Bella Gutnik
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Brent D Matthews
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Rachel R Kelz
- Department of Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia
| | - Caroline E Reinke
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
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Metzger G, Jatana K, Apfeld J, Deans KJ, Minneci PC, Halaweish I. State of telemedicine use in pediatric surgery in the USA—where we stand and what we can gain from the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review. WORLD JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY 2021; 4:e000257. [DOI: 10.1136/wjps-2020-000257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundWithin the last decade, the use of telemedicine within in primary care in the USA has greatly expanded; however, use remains uncommon in surgical specialties. The spread of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prompted healthcare institutions to limit in-person contact, resulting in an increase in telemedicine across all specialties, including pediatric surgery. The aims of this review were to evaluate potential barriers that limited the use of telemedicine in pediatric surgery prior to the COVID-19 period and to define how best to incorporate its use into a pediatric surgical practice going forward.MethodsA scoping review was performed to identify gaps in the literature pertaining to the use of telemedicine within general pediatric surgery in the USA prior to the outbreak of COVID-19. Next, a focused evaluation of the legislative and organizational policies on telemedicine was performed. Lastly, findings were summarized and recommendations for future research developed in the context of understanding and overcoming barriers that have plagued widespread adoption in the past.ResultsDespite evidence of telemedicine being safe and well received by adult surgical patients, a total of only three studies representing original research on the use of telemedicine within pediatric surgery were identified. Legislative and organizational policies regarding telemedicine have been altered in response to COVID-19, likely resulting in an increase in the use of telemedicine among pediatric surgeons.ConclusionsTelemedicine offers a safe and effective option for patients seeking an alternative to the in-person clinic appointment. The increased utilization of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic will provide an opportunity to learn how best to leverage the technology to decrease disparities and to overcome previous barriers.
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Diaz A, Schoenbrunner A, Pawlik TM. Trends in the Geospatial Distribution of Inpatient Adult Surgical Services across the United States. Ann Surg 2021; 273:121-127. [PMID: 31090565 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000003366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to define trends in the geographic distribution of surgical services in the United States to assess possible geographic barriers and disparities in access to surgical care. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Despite the increased need and utilization of surgical procedures, Americans often face challenges in gaining access to health care that may be exacerbated by the closure and consolidation of hospitals. Although access to surgical care has been evaluated relative to the role of insurance, race, and health literacy/education, the relationship of geography and travel distance to access has not been well studied. METHODS The 2005 and 2015 American Hospital Association annual survey was used to identify hospitals with surgical capacity; the data were merged with 2010 Census Bureau data to identify the distribution of the US population relative to hospital location, and geospatial analysis tools were used to examine a service area of real driving time surrounding each hospital. RESULTS Although the number of hospitals that provided surgical services slightly decreased over the time periods examined (2005, n = 3791; 2015, n = 3391; P<0.001), the number of major surgery hospitals increased from 2005 (n = 539) to 2015 (n = 749) (P<0.001). The geographic location of hospitals that provided surgical services changed over time. Specifically, although in 2005 852 hospitals were located in a rural area, that number had decreased to 679 by 2015 (P<0.001). Of particular note, from 2005 to 2015 there was an 82% increase in the number of people who lived further than 60 minutes from any hospital (P<0.001). However, the number of people who lived further than 60 minutes from a major surgery hospital decreased (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Although the number of rural hospitals decreased over the last decade, the number of large, academic medical centers has increased; in turn, there has been an almost doubling in the number of people who live outside a 60-minute driving range to a hospital capable of performing surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Diaz
- Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Anna Schoenbrunner
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
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Experience of outreach in a resource-constrained environment: 10 years of outcomes in burn care. Burns 2021; 47:1656-1664. [PMID: 33642122 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2021.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this work was to describe an efficient and sustainable outreach model in a resource-constrained environment, with a multifaceted approach focusing on national policy change, telemedicine, injury prevention, education and treatment of burns. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Burn injury constitutes a significant portion of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in children, and in low- and middle-income countries. METHODS We reviewed the impact of ten-years of a burn outreach program. Our focus was on clinical data on burn care within one region of Ukraine. We assessed knowledge of burn prevention/first aid utilizing a large survey, analyzed clinical data from our outreach clinic and telemedicine program, and analyzed data within a newly created burn repository within Ukraine. RESULTS A national burn prevention policy has been implemented through our efforts along with a burn prevention program. Educational efforts have led to improvements of major complication rates (wound infection [7% vs. 16%], pneumonia [2.4% vs. 0.3%], sepsis [1.6% vs. 0.6%], UTI [2% vs. 0.6%], and cellulitis [11% vs. 3.4%]), respiratory support of acutely ill patients [1.3% vs. 0.4%], and blood transfusion triggers. CONCLUSIONS Broadly, our model could be an example of building sustainable outreach programs in resource-constrained environments. Through collaboration with local healthcare providers, we have developed and implemented an outreach program in a resource-constrained environment.
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Adesoye T, Davis CH, Del Calvo H, Shaikh AF, Chegireddy V, Chan EY, Martinez S, Pei KY, Zheng F, Tariq N. "Optimization of Surgical Resident Safety and Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic - Lessons Learned". JOURNAL OF SURGICAL EDUCATION 2021; 78:315-320. [PMID: 32739443 PMCID: PMC7328568 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsurg.2020.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has engendered rapid and significant changes in patient care. Within the realm of surgical training, the resultant reduction in clinical exposure and case volume jeopardizes the quality of surgical training. Thus, our general surgery residency program proceeded to develop a tailored approach to training that mitigates impact on resident surgical education and optimizes clinical exposure without compromising safety. Residents were engaged directly in planning efforts to craft a response to the pandemic. Following the elimination of elective cases, the in-house resident complement was effectively decreased to reduce unnecessary exposure, with a back-up pool to address unanticipated absences and needs. Personal protective equipment availability and supply, the greatest concern to residents, has remained adequate, while being utilized according to current guidelines. Interested residents were given the opportunity to work in designated COVID ICUs on a volunteer basis. With the decrease in operative volume and clinical duties, we shifted our educational focus to an intensive didactic schedule using a teleconferencing platform and targeted areas of weakness on prior in-service exams. We also highlighted critical COVID-19 literature in a weekly journal club to better understand this novel disease and its effect on surgical practice. The long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on resident education remains to be seen. Success may be achieved with commitment to constant needs assessment in the changing landscape of healthcare with the goal of producing a skilled surgical workforce for public service.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Adesoye
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas.
| | - C H Davis
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - H Del Calvo
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - A F Shaikh
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - V Chegireddy
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - E Y Chan
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - S Martinez
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - K Y Pei
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - F Zheng
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - N Tariq
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
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Rossi IR, Ross SW, May AK, Reinke CE. Readmission After Emergency General Surgery: NSQIP Review of Risk, Cause and Ideal Follow-Up. J Surg Res 2020; 260:359-368. [PMID: 33387679 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2020.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Emergency General Surgery (EGS) population is particularly at high risk for readmission. Currently, no system exists to predict which EGS patients are most at risk. We hypothesized that a subset of EGS patients could be identified with increased 30-day unplanned readmission. We also hypothesized that a majority of readmissions occur sooner than the conventional 2-week follow-up period. METHODS National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) nonelective general surgery patients were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors with increased odds of unplanned readmission. AAST EGS Diagnosis Categories were used to categorize postop ICD-9 codes, and the top 10 CPT codes in each group were analyzed. Readmission rate, the reason for unplanned readmission, and time to readmission were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 383,726 patients were identified with a readmission rate of 8.1% within 30 d of their primary procedure. The top 50 CPT codes accounted for 84% of EGS readmissions. Increased readmission risk was demonstrated for underweight patients (OR = 1.15, P < 0.05). High-risk hospital characteristics were LOS >2 d, any inpatient pulmonary complications, and discharge to any facility or rehab (all P < 0.05). Surgical site infections cause nearly 25% of readmissions. Intestinal procedures are most frequently readmitted (22% of EGS readmissions), with colorectal procedures having the higher odds of readmission. Most readmissions occur <10 d after discharge. CONCLUSIONS A high-risk subpopulation exists within EGS, and most readmissions occur sooner than a typical 2-week follow-up. Early interventions for high-risk EGS subpopulations may allow for early intervention and reduction of unnecessary healthcare utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isolina R Rossi
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina.
| | - Samuel W Ross
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Addison K May
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Caroline E Reinke
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
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Patient experience with electronic health record-integrated postoperative telemedicine visits in an academic endocrine surgery program. Surgery 2020; 169:1139-1144. [PMID: 33384159 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2020.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In response to the coronavirus 2019 pandemic, telemedicine use has increased throughout the United States. We aimed to measure patient experience with electronic health record-integrated postoperative telemedicine encounters following thyroid and parathyroid surgery. METHODS In this preliminary study, adult patients receiving postoperative electronic health record-integrated telemedicine video encounters or standard in-person visits after thyroid or parathyroid surgery at a single institution were prospectively enrolled from November 2019 through May 2020. Patients with home zip codes 10 to 75 miles from the medical center were included. Patient experience was assessed using the Consumer Assessment of Health Care Providers and Systems Clinician & Group Visit Survey 2.0 and the Communication Assessment Tool. Top box analysis was performed, defined as the percentage of respondents who chose the most positive response score. RESULTS The cohort consisted of 45 telemedicine and 32 in-person encounters. Both groups reported similar and excellent patient experience and satisfaction (9.7 of 10 for telemedicine vs 9.8 of 10 for in-person encounters, mean difference 0.02, 95% confidence interval, [-0.25 to 0.29]). Similar surgeon communication performance was observed (mean Communication Assessment Tool top box score 83% telemedicine vs 86% in-person, mean difference 3%, 95% confidence interval [-10% to 17%]). Nonlinear increases in monthly telemedicine encounter volume were observed within the section of endocrine surgery (3-fold increase) and the health system (125-fold increase) from November 2019 to May 2020. CONCLUSION Patients who underwent cervical endocrine surgery reported similarly high rates of satisfaction and excellent surgeon communication following either telemedicine or in-person postoperative encounters. Electronic health record-integrated telemedicine for a subset of low-risk procedures can act as a suitable replacement for in-person encounters. A surge in telemedicine use, stimulated by the coronavirus 2019 pandemic, was experienced at our institution.
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Value-based Healthcare: Not Going Anywhere-Why Orthopaedic Surgeons Will Continue Using Telehealth in a Post-COVID-19 World. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2020; 478:2717-2719. [PMID: 33165045 PMCID: PMC7899382 DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000001561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Kemp MT, Liesman DR, Williams AM, Brown CS, Iancu AM, Wakam GK, Biesterveld BE, Alam HB. Surgery Provider Perceptions on Telehealth Visits During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Room for Improvement. J Surg Res 2020; 260:300-306. [PMID: 33360755 PMCID: PMC7664345 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2020.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background COVID-19 has mandated rapid adoption of telehealth for surgical care. However, many surgical providers may be unfamiliar with telehealth. This study evaluates the perspectives of surgical providers practicing telehealth care during COVID-19 to help identify targets for surgical telehealth optimization. Materials and methods At a single tertiary care center with telehealth capabilities, all department of surgery providers (attending surgeons, residents, fellows, and advanced practice providers) were emailed a voluntary survey focused on telehealth during the pandemic. Descriptive statistics and Mann–Whitney U analyses were performed as appropriate on responses. Text responses were thematically coded to identify key concepts. Results The completion rate was 41.3% (145/351). Providers reported increased telehealth usage relative to the pandemic (P < 0.001). Of respondents, 80% (116/145) had no formal telehealth training. Providers estimated that new patient video visits required less time than traditional visits (P = 0.001). Satisfaction was high for several aspects of video visits. Comparatively lower satisfaction scores were reported for the ability to perform physical exams (sensitive and nonsensitive) and to break bad news. The largest barriers to effective video visits were limited physical exams (55.6%; 45/81) and lack of provider or patient internet access/equipment/connection (34.6%; 28/81). Other barriers included ineffective communication and difficulty with fostering rapport. Concerns regarding video-to-telephone visit conversion were loss of physical exam/visual cues (34.3%; 24/70), less personal interactions (18.6%; 13/70), and reduced efficiency (18.6%; 13/70). Conclusions Telehealth remains a new experience for surgical providers despite its expansion. Optimization strategies should target technology barriers and include specialized virtual exam and communication training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Kemp
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Aaron M Williams
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Craig S Brown
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Glenn K Wakam
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Hasan B Alam
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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Irarrázaval MJ, Inzunza M, Muñoz R, Quezada N, Brañes A, Gabrielli M, Soto P, Dib M, Urrejola G, Varas J, Valderrama S, Crovari F, Achurra P. Telemedicine for postoperative follow-up, virtual surgical clinics during COVID-19 pandemic. Surg Endosc 2020; 35:6300-6306. [PMID: 33140151 PMCID: PMC7605475 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-020-08130-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Summary and background data Recent coronavirus outbreak and “stay at home” policies have accelerated the implementation of virtual healthcare. Many surgery departments are implementing telemedicine to enhance remote perioperative care. However, concern still arises regarding the safety of this modality in postoperative follow-up after gastrointestinal surgery. The aim of the present prospective study is to compare the use of telemedicine clinics to in-person follow-up for postoperative care after gastrointestinal surgery during COVID-19 outbreak. Methods Prospective study that included all abdominal surgery patients operated since the COVID-19 outbreak. On discharge, patients were given the option to perform their postoperative follow-up appointment by telemedicine or by in-person clinics. Demographic, perioperative, and follow-up variables were analyzed. Results Among 219 patients who underwent abdominal surgery, 106 (48%) had their postoperative follow-up using telemedicine. There were no differences in age, gender, ASA score, and COVID-19 positive rate between groups. Patients who preferred telemedicine over in-person follow-up were more likely to have undergone laparoscopic surgery (71% vs. 51%, P = 0.037) and emergency surgery (55% vs. 41%; P = 0.038). Morbidity rate for telemedicine and in-person group was 5.7% and 8%, (P = 0.50). Only 2.8% of patients needed an in-person visit following the telemedicine consult, and 1.9% visited the emergency department. Conclusions In the current pandemic, telemedicine follow-up can be safely and effectively performed in selected surgical patients. Patients who underwent laparoscopic and emergency procedures opted more for telemedicine than in-person follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Irarrázaval
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Martin Inzunza
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Muñoz
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Nicolás Quezada
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Alejandro Brañes
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Mauricio Gabrielli
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Pedro Soto
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Martín Dib
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Urrejola
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Julian Varas
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Sebastián Valderrama
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Fernando Crovari
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Pablo Achurra
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, 8330077, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile.
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Abstract
New telehealth platforms and interventions have proliferated over the past decade and will be further spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. Emerging literature examines the efficacy and safety of these interventions. Early pilot studies and trials demonstrate equivalent outcomes of telehealth interventions that seek to replace routine postoperative care in low-risk patients who have undergone low-risk surgeries. Studies are underway to evaluate interventions in higher-risk populations undergoing more complex procedures. Tele-ICU platforms demonstrate promise to provide specialized, high-acuity care to underserved areas and may also be used to augment compliance with evidence-based protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn Purnell
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6550 Fannin Street, Smith 16, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Feibi Zheng
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6550 Fannin Street, Smith 16, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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50
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Andino JJ, Lingaya MA, Daignault-Newton S, Shah PK, Ellimoottil C. Video Visits as a Substitute for Urological Clinic Visits. Urology 2020; 144:46-51. [PMID: 32619595 PMCID: PMC7834609 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2020.05.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether video visits were being used as substitutes to clinic visits prior to COVID-19 at our institution's outpatient urology centers. METHODS We reviewed 600 established patient video visits completed by 13 urology providers at a tertiary academic center in southeast Michigan. We compared these visits to a random, stratified sample of established patient clinic visits. We assessed baseline demographics and visit characteristics for both groups. We defined our primary outcome ("revisit rate") as the proportion of additional healthcare evaluation (ie, office, emergency room, hospitalization) by a urology provider within 30 days of the initial encounter. RESULTS Patients seen by video visit tended to be younger (51 vs 61 years, P <.001), would have to travel further for a clinic appointment (82 vs 68 miles, P <.001), and were more likely to be female (36 vs 28%, P = .001). The most common diagnostic groups evaluated through video visits were nephrolithiasis (40%), oncology (18%) and andrology (14.3%). While the 30-day revisit rates were higher for clinic visits (4.3% vs 7.5%, P = .01) primarily due to previously scheduled appointments, revisits due to medical concerns were similar across both groups (0.5% vs 0.67%; P = .60). CONCLUSIONS Video visits can be used to deliver care across a broad range of urologic diagnoses and can serve as a substitute for clinic visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan J Andino
- Department of Urology, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI.
| | | | | | - Parth K Shah
- Department of Urology, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Chad Ellimoottil
- Department of Urology, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI; Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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