The Benefits of an Interactive, Individualized Online Patient Pathway for Patients Undergoing Minimally Invasive Radioguided Parathyroidectomy: A Prospective, Double-Blinded, Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Aim. This study determined the usefulness of an interactive, individualized online patient pathway to patients undergoing elective operation for nonmalignant disease. Methods. An exploratory double-blind, prospective randomized controlled trial was established involving consecutive patients undergoing minimally invasive radioguided parathyroidectomy (MIRP). A total of 64 patients were randomly assigned to either a standard or an enhanced Web site (interactive with detailed, personalized timeline). Each patient completed validated Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale questionnaires preoperatively and pain assessments and questionnaires concerning Web site usefulness postoperatively. Results . All patients found their Web site useful, although patient satisfaction was significantly higher with the enhanced Web site in regard to overall impression as well as ease, organization, usefulness, and specificity of information. There were no significant differences in mean anxiety or pain scores, in analgesia requirements, or adequacy of informed consent. Conclusion. Providing education and information through a tailored Web server is viewed positively by patients.