How useful are virtual fracture clinics?: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Trauma Care
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Increasing emergency department attendances necessitate innovative solutions for trauma services.
• Virtual fracture clinics (VFCs) have emerged as a response to manage demand and adhere to BOAST guidelines.
• This review assesses the utility of VFCs in reducing patient consultations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the effectiveness and safety of VFCs.
• To identify specific injuries and conditions suitable for VFC management.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction, clinical efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and clinical outcomes of VFCs.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Database.
• Adherence to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) checklist.
• Screening and eligibility confirmation by multiple authors.

Main Results:

• Twenty-one relevant records were identified.
• Six orthopaedic injuries were deemed suitable for VFC review.
• Up to 50% reduction in face-to-face appointments, 46.4% compliance with BOAST guidelines, and cost savings up to £212,000 were reported.

Conclusions:

• The VFC model provides a safe, cost-effective, and efficient component of trauma services.
• VFCs contribute to managing high demand and improving guideline compliance.
• This review supports the integration of VFCs into trauma care pathways.