Prospective Telemedicine Postoperative Protocol Following Microincision Vitrectomy Surgery (MIVS)

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Digital Health

Background:

• Microincision Vitrectomy Surgery (MIVS) typically involves in-person postoperative visits.
• Previous retrospective studies indicate low complication rates after MIVS.
• A prospective evaluation of telemedicine for MIVS postoperative care is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and safety of telemedicine for postoperative visits (POV) following MIVS.
• To compare virtual telemedicine (VT) versus in-person telemedicine (IP) for POVs.
• To evaluate patient outcomes and complications in a telemedicine setting.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized study involving 53 patients undergoing MIVS.
• Patients were assigned to either virtual telemedicine (VT) or in-person telemedicine (IP) for POVs.
• Key assessments included visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and fundus exams at scheduled intervals.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between VT and IP groups (p=0.70).
• No significant differences were observed in intraocular pressure (IOP) or RNFL scores.
• No post-surgical complications were reported in either group.

Conclusions:

• Telemedicine appears to be a safe and convenient alternative for postoperative management of uncomplicated MIVS.
• Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to confirm these findings.
• Telemedicine can potentially streamline postoperative care pathways in ophthalmology.