Post surgical review of bariatric surgery patients: a feasibility study of multidisciplinary follow up using
Emma Morrow1, Duff Morrison Bruce, Elizabeth Bruce
1Clinical Psychologist, Obesity Services, Rosehill Annexe, Foresterhill Site, Cornhill Road, Aberdeen AB25 2ZG, UK.
Background:
Bariatric surgery is an effective means of managing weight and reducing medical co-morbidities in the obese patient. However, psychological difficulties are common and adequate multidisciplinary support is vital for post-surgical success. Videoconferencing is potentially a vehicle for the delivery of support to patients residing in remote areas.
Methods:
Ten patients were invited to attend a videolink session utilising videoconferencing technology to allow clinicians to connect audio-visually with patients from two remote locations. Seven patients attended. A Consultant Surgeon, Clinical Psychologist and Specialist Dietitian reviewed the patients. Patients and clinicians completed a post-session evaluation questionnaire and commented on their experience.
Results:
The videolink session was evaluated as acceptable and useful to both patients and clinicians. Patients and clinicians were satisfied with the user-friendliness of the technology.
Conclusion:
Videolink technology may be a viable and accessible means of delivering specialist multidisciplinary input to bariatric patients. Further research is necessary.
