Effectiveness of WeChat plus scene-based graphics health education for rehabilitation after open elbow arthrolysis: A historical control study (Preprint)

Abstract

Elbow stiffness is a common disease that can seriously limit daily activities. Open elbow arthrolysis is the most effective treatment, but long-term postoperative rehabilitation is necessary. Traditional health education is unlikely to improve patient compliance and outcomes. Convenient and interesting tools and methods, such as WeChat and scene-based graphics, should be used to enhance elbow recovery.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of WeChat plus Scene-based graphics health education after open elbow arthrolysis.

This historical control study included patients who were 18 years or older, who underwent open elbow arthrolysis, who had normal communication skills and who were capable of using WeChat. Those who were eligible to participate were divided into two groups based on their admission time: the control group (56 patients enrolled from January to June 2021) and the WeChat group (56 patients enrolled from July to December 2021). The control group received traditional health education, while the WeChat group received WeChat plus scene-based graphics health education. Information was presented as comics and divided into 4 parts, which were then shared through a WeChat public account. The patients received the information and daily lessons through the WeChat public account during hospitalization. Patients received online instruction through a WeChat group after discharge until 12 weeks post operation. All outcome data were collected at 1 week, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks post operation. The primary outcome was elbow range of motion, while the secondary outcomes included elbow function, quality of life, and incidence of complications.

At 12 weeks post surgery, the WeChat group exhibited a significantly greater elbow range of motion than the control group (all P<.001). Moreover, the WeChat group had significantly better elbow function and quality of life (all P<.001). At 6 weeks post surgery, there were two elbow range of motion items that were significantly different between the WeChat group and the control group (forearm pronation: P=.014; forearm supination: P=.042). The incidence of complications was similar between the two groups (heterotopic ossification: P=.799; new onset or exacerbation of ulnar nerve symptoms: WeChat: P=1.00; repeat elbow stiffness: P=0.558).

WeChat plus scene-based graphics health education has a marked effect on elbow range of motion, elbow function, and quality of life, as well as preventing complications.

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000036004; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj. Html?proj=59168.