Using Text Messaging in Long-Term Arthroplasty Follow-Up: A Pilot Study

Abstract

BackgroundPatient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and mobile technology have the potential to change the way patients are monitored following joint replacement surgery.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of text messaging to record PROMs in long-term follow-up of hip and knee arthroplasty. Our participants were 17 patients 2-years-plus post hip or knee arthroplasty attending clinic with a mobile telephone number on record.MethodsA simple PROM (Oswestry Very Short Form) was texted to the patient. Responses were compared to clinical, radiographic, and existing PROM findings. Patients were interviewed to discover their opinions on this use of texting.ResultsA total of 11 patients engaged with the text messaging. Reasons for not engaging included wrong numbers, physical barriers, and lack of understanding. A total of 8 patients attending clinic allowed comparison of text messaging with clinical findings. The average age was 70 years. A total of 4 patient text messaging responses matched clinical and radiographic findings; 3 also matched PROM scores collected in clinic. The 3 patients with mixed responses had abnormal clinical, radiographic, or PROM findings. One patient’s text responses conflicted with clinical outcome. Analysis of patients’ views showed a generally positive opinion: patients were happy to communicate with surgeons by text. Practical problems, PROM limitations, and trustworthiness of texting were highlighted.ConclusionsEngaging with changing technology creates challenges for patients and health care professionals. Despite this, our results suggest text messaging is a promising way to communicate with arthroplasty patients. Earlier integration of text communication in the patient pathway may be important and needs further research.

Development of the KOOSglobal Platform to Measure Patient-Reported Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

“…2 Similarly, Blocker et al utilized text messaging to follow arthroplasty patients at greater than two years follow-up and concluded that text messaging is viable avenue for following patients long-term. 4…”

“…Anthony et al 2 evaluated text messaging for delivery of the patient questionnaires in the early postoperative period and reported >85% follow-up at virtually no cost. Similarly, Blocker et al 4 utilized text messaging to follow patients undergoing arthroplasty with >2 years of follow-up and concluded that text messaging is a viable avenue for following patients long-term.…”

“…Anthony et al 2 evaluated text messaging for delivery of the patient questionnaires in the early postoperative period and reported .85% follow-up at virtually no cost. Similarly, Blocker et al 4 utilized text messaging to follow patients undergoing arthroplasty with .2 years of follow-up and concluded that text messaging is a viable avenue for following patients long-term. Note that we are in no way suggesting that the KOOS global platform be considered a stand-alone replacement for the full KOOS in the research arena, nor do we believe that the KOOS global should somehow supplant the KOOS, JR as a PRO tool for arthroplasty.…”

Patients’ reasons for non-use of digital patient-reported outcome concepts: A scoping review

“…In all, 17 studies used written reminders such as email, SMS or push notifications. 21,26,27,[29][30][31][32][33]39,42,44,49,54,55,60,65,69 Two studies used telephone reminders, and one reminded people when they arrived at the clinic. 48 Nonparticipation and dropout rates.…”

“…Used less than five sessions 3 Withdrew after randomization BLOCKER ET AL. 29 11 Did not complete 53 Did not engage BROCHMANN N. E AL. 30…”