Evidence for the Appropriate Use of Telemedicine in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery

Abstract

Purpose of review: To summarize the available literature regarding telehealth interventions in the management of pelvic floor disorders.

Recent findings: Most Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) patients own and feel comfortable operating the technology required to participate in telehealth interventions and would be willing to interact remotely with their providers. Telehealth may be an appropriate and effective tool for patient education about bladder and pelvic physiology and pathophysiology, remote pelvic floor muscle strengthening when in-person physical therapy is not accessible, overactive bladder follow-up and medication management, and for postoperative care following uncomplicated incontinence and prolapse surgery.

Summary: There is a growing body of literature specific to FPMRS supporting various telehealth interventions that could reasonably be expected to improve access to sub-specialty care while maintaining or improving healthcare quality and reducing costs to the patient and the healthcare system.

Keywords: Pelvic organ prolapse; Postoperative telehealth; Remote healthcare; Telehealth; Telemedicine in FPMRS; Urinary incontinence.