Our Summary

This research paper discusses the impact of telemedicine, specifically video conferencing, on the field of outpatient plastic and reconstructive surgery. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, only a few medical specialties used video conferencing. However, after the pandemic began, major health insurance providers and Medicare and Medicaid Services loosened regulations, allowing more specialties to use video conferencing instead of in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial as it reduces the risk of exposure to diseases, especially for patients with weakened immune systems. The study found video conferencing to be just as effective as traditional methods for treating patients and allows patients to save time and money on travel. It also improves patient satisfaction and allows doctors to treat patients in remote areas. Incorporating video conferencing into medical practices can make them more efficient, improve patient satisfaction, and reduce costs for both patients and healthcare systems.

FAQs

  1. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the use of video conferencing in outpatient plastic and reconstructive surgery?
  2. What are the benefits of using video conferencing for patients in need of reconstructive surgery?
  3. How does incorporating video conferencing into medical practices improve efficiency and reduce costs?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may tell a patient considering reconstructive surgery that it is important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. They may advise the patient to discuss their goals and concerns openly with the surgeon during the consultation to ensure that they have a clear understanding of what can be achieved through surgery. Additionally, the doctor may recommend that the patient follows all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully to ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications. It is also important for the patient to have a support system in place during the recovery process, as reconstructive surgery can be physically and emotionally demanding.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended reconstructive surgery include those with congenital deformities, such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, or hand anomalies. Additionally, patients who have suffered traumatic injuries resulting in facial disfigurement, burns, or loss of function in a limb may also benefit from reconstructive surgery. Patients with cancer, such as breast cancer or skin cancer, may also undergo reconstructive surgery following tumor removal. Patients with birth defects, such as microtia or syndactyly, may also be candidates for reconstructive surgery to improve their quality of life and self-esteem. Overall, reconstructive surgery aims to restore form and function to patients who have experienced physical deformities or trauma.

Timeline

Before reconstructive surgery:

  1. Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss their desired outcome and develop a treatment plan.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  3. Patient schedules a surgery date and prepares for the procedure, including arranging for transportation to and from the surgical facility.

After reconstructive surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure and is monitored closely by medical staff during recovery.
  2. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and bruising in the days following surgery and will be prescribed pain medication to manage discomfort.
  3. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the plastic surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  4. Patient may undergo physical therapy or other treatments to aid in the recovery process and optimize results.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and sees the full results of the reconstructive surgery over time, with final results typically visible after several months.

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after reconstructive surgery involves thorough preparation, the surgical procedure itself, post-operative care and monitoring, and gradual recovery and healing to achieve the desired outcome.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with the reconstructive surgery I am considering?
  2. How many times have you performed this specific type of reconstructive surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for this surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing reconstructive surgery?
  5. Can you provide before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone similar reconstructive surgeries?
  6. What kind of scarring can I expect from this surgery and are there any ways to minimize scarring?
  7. How long will the results of the reconstructive surgery last?
  8. Will I need additional surgeries or follow-up procedures in the future?
  9. What are the potential long-term effects or complications of this reconstructive surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions I should be aware of before and after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Saad NH, AlQattan HT, Ochoa O, Chrysopoulo M. Journal: Plast Reconstr Surg. 2020 Nov;146(5):680e-683e. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000007344. PMID: 32732794