Divyeshkumar Keshavjibhai Vadgama, Ojas Bharatkumar Solanki, Amitkumar Dilipkumar Modi, Piyush Makwana
2. Digitalization of Informed Consent for Surgery: A Contemporary Perspective
Divyeshkumar Keshavjibhai Vadgama, Ojas Bharatkumar Solanki, Amitkumar Dilipkumar Modi, Piyush Makwana
Abstract
Background and Objectives: In the realm of surgical practice, informed consent holds a position of paramount significance. The utilization of digital media emerges as a promising approach to augment patients’ comprehension of the proposed surgical procedures. This study aimed to investigate the impact of incorporating an online digital educational presentation (DEP) alongside the conventional informed consent (CIC) for laproscopic cholecystectomy. Material and Methods: This prospective, randomized study involved allocation of 67 patients of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, into two groups: DEP+CIC (intervention, n=33) or CIC (control, n=34). The DEP entailed a comprehensive online 13-slide video-enhanced module that provided a detailed account of the risks, benefits, expectations, and anticipated outcomes associated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A 20-item MCQ test was used for assessment of baseline and post-consent comprehension, modified Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ-8), was used for patient satisfaction and the duration of the consent process was quantified in seconds using a stop watch. Results: Baseline demographic data and procedure-specific knowledge were equivalent between groups. Post-consent knowledge was significantly higher in the DEP+CIC vs CIC group. The duration of time to obtain informed consent was significantly shorter for the DEP+CIC group. Significantly higher patient satisfaction was observed in DEP+CIC group. Conclusion: The incorporation of an online DEP module into the conventional informed consent process for surgery resulted in enhanced patient comprehension, high levels of patient satisfaction and remarkable reduction in time required for consent.