Videoconferencing in Pressure Injury: Randomized Controlled Telemedicine Trial in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Telehealth
• Wound Care

Background:

• Geographical, financial, and travel barriers can impede healthcare access for individuals requiring long-term follow-up.
• Pressure injuries (PI) are a common complication for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).
• Optimizing care delivery for SCI patients with chronic conditions like PI is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of multidisciplinary videoconference consultations versus regular outpatient care for patients with SCI and PI.
• To compare health-related quality of life (HRQoL), PI healing, patient-provider interaction, and satisfaction between videoconference and regular care groups.

Main Methods:

• A nonblinded, randomized controlled trial involving 56 participants with SCI and PI.
• Participants were randomized into a videoconference group (VCG) or a regular care group (RCG).
• Validated questionnaires assessed HRQoL and satisfaction; wound volume reduction and healing time were measured.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in HRQoL, PI healing rates, interaction, or satisfaction between the VCG and RCG.
• Overall, 67% of PIs healed, with 64% in VCG and 70% in RCG.
• Mean ulcer volume reduction was 79% in VCG and 85% in RCG, with no significant difference in time to healing.

Conclusions:

• Videoconference-based care is a safe and effective method for managing PIs in SCI patients, comparable to conventional care.
• This modality should be considered for future healthcare planning, especially for remote or underserved populations.
• Improving care systems is essential to ensure optimal treatment for SCI individuals with long-term follow-up needs.