A Smartphone Application for Postoperative Care with an Instant Feedback System after Cataract Surgery

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: Outpatient postoperative periodic visits still lack information for the early detection of patients with initial infection or other serious conditions after cataract surgeries. We developed and accessed a postoperative care smartphone application (PC app) for patients to self-record and report postoperative symptoms/signs with an instant bidirectional feedback system. Methods: The PC app alerted the patient to report and grade six ocular symptoms/signs associated with endophthalmitis or retinal detachment. Patients used the PC app for 7 days postoperatively to assess their symptoms/signs 4 times a day after receiving an alert. The data automatically collected using a cloud computer system judged the grade and sent messages to medical staff for further medical assistance. User information and satisfaction were collected from the questionnaire on the 7th day. Results: 50 patients participated. There were two reports of symptom grade deterioration (increased photopsia and fever) in two patients. 81% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied to communicate their symptoms instantly with the app, 86% reported the app to be helpful, and 81% opined to use it again. While, 79% of patients considered the PC app to improve the quality of postoperative care, 86% found it helpful for seeking medical assistance. Critical themes included less willingness to look at smartphones after eye surgery, lack of a footnote area, and the need for more medical education. Conclusion: This novel PC app for self-reporting of postoperative symptoms and instant bidirectional feedback system could be useful for cataract patients. It was perceived to be satisfactory and improve the quality of patient care after cataract surgery.