Feasibility and Implementation of Remote Surgical Telementoring in Rural Hospitals: A Multi-Institutional Case Series

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Telemedicine
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Remote surgical telementoring adoption is increasing, but network infrastructure and case selection require further investigation.
• Challenges in implementing remote surgical telementoring in rural settings are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of remote surgical telementoring in rural hospitals.
• To evaluate network environments, identify suitable surgical cases and mentee profiles, and explore implementation challenges.

Main Methods:

• Seven remote surgical telementoring cases were conducted across four rural hospitals between September 2024 and April 2025.
• Network environments were assessed, and laparoscopic sigmoid colectomies and cholecystectomies were performed.
• Postoperative questionnaires were administered to participating surgeons, assistants, and observers.

Main Results:

• Network speeds varied significantly, with one hospital excluded due to poor performance and connectivity issues.
• 75% of respondents found remote instruction comparable to on-site, with similar interest in future use.
• 70% identified moderate-complexity surgeries by mid-level surgeons as most suitable for remote telementoring.

Conclusions:

• Remote surgical telementoring is feasible and effective in rural hospitals with adequate network infrastructure.
• The technology is particularly well-suited for moderate-complexity procedures performed by mid-level surgeons.
• Reliable network connectivity is crucial for successful remote surgical telementoring implementation.