Development of a self-monitoring system for lung transplant patients using information and communication technology: a pilot study

Abstract

BackgroundLung transplantation is the final option for end-stage respiratory diseases. Postoperative monitoring of patients’ physical condition and performance of appropriate interventions for any abnormalities are important to improve the long-term success of lung transplantation. In Japan, patients’ handwritten self-management charts are widely used to record data for home spirometry, vital signs, and medication dosages. However, handwritten data are not suitable for assessment. We developed an internet-based real-time monitoring system (LT-FollowUp) that can easily assess patient data and detect any abnormalities that arise without delay. The aim of this pilot study was to examine the acceptability of LT-FollowUp to patients.MethodsThis was a prospective single-arm pilot cohort study. Lung transplant patients were recruited consecutively at regular outpatient visits from October 2020. Patients were instructed to enter their self-measurements (pulmonary functions and vital signs) and immunosuppressant dosages twice a day.Acceptability was assessed by the data filling rate. The changes in filling rate over time were evaluated using a linear mixed-effects model for repeated measurements.ResultsA total of 19 patients were included in the study. There were no significant differences in the filling rates between the handwritten charts and LT-FollowUp.ConclusionLT-FollowUp is an acceptable system for patients. Further development of the LT-FollowUp system may lead to better long-term clinical outcomes of lung transplantation.