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Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach for Thyroid Lobectomy
Published on: May 12, 2023
Telemedicine--an efficient and cost-effective approach in parathyroid surgery
Andrew C Urquhart1, Nina M Antoniotti, Richard L Berg
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Marshfield, Wisconsin 54449, USA. urquhart.andrew@marshfieldclinic.org
The Laryngoscope
|June 8, 2011
Summary
Telemedicine effectively manages postoperative care for parathyroidectomy patients. This approach offers significant cost savings and convenience, demonstrating its value for patients and healthcare systems.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Surgical Oncology
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Primary hyperparathyroidism often necessitates parathyroidectomy.
- Postoperative follow-up is crucial for patient recovery and monitoring.
- Traditional follow-up visits can involve significant travel burdens for patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and cost-benefit of using telemedicine for postoperative visits after parathyroidectomy.
- To assess the feasibility and patient outcomes associated with remote surgical follow-up.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, noncontrolled study was conducted at a tertiary medical center.
- 39 patients undergoing parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism participated in postoperative TeleHealth visits.
- Data collected included patient demographics, travel distances, visit completion, and complications.
Main Results:
- 26% (39 of 149) of patients utilized TeleHealth for their postoperative visit.
- All TeleHealth visits were completed successfully without postoperative complications.
- An average of 119 miles and $357.00 per patient in travel costs and lost work time were saved.
Conclusions:
- TeleHealth provides a cost-effective and efficient method for parathyroidectomy follow-up.
- Utilizing telemedicine offers substantial convenience and financial advantages to patients.
- This approach benefits both patients and the broader healthcare system.
