Comparison of assessment and follow-up for benign eyelid lesions: Tele-oculoplastic application versus face-to-face visits in Thammasat hospital.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the accuracy and feasibility of a tele-oculoplastic application for monitoring benign eyelid lesions compared with face-to-face outpatient follow-up.

Design: Prospective cohort pilot study.

Methods: Thirty adult patients diagnosed with benign eyelid lesions at the outpatient clinic of Thammasat Hospital between March 1^st and August 31^st, 2024 were prospectively enrolled. After diagnosis, patients were registered in a tele-oculoplastic application, and baseline lesion photographs were obtained. Follow-up assessments were conducted using both the application and in-person clinic visits. Within 24 hours before or after the clinic visit, patients submitted updated symptoms and photographs via the application. Two consultant oculoplastic surgeons independently evaluated the cases: one through face-to-face examination and the other through the application. Management decisions were categorized as discharge, continued follow-up, or surgery.

Results: Concordance between telemedicine-based and face-to-face assessments was observed in 25 of 30 patients (83.3%), while discordance occurred in 5 patients (16.7%). Patient satisfaction with symptom monitoring via the application was high (mean ± SD, 4.10 ± 0.85), and ease of use was rated favorably (mean ± SD, 3.90 ± 0.96).

Conclusion: This pilot study suggests that a tele-oculoplastic application is a feasible option for monitoring selected benign eyelid lesions and may reduce unnecessary outpatient visits. Larger, multicenter studies are required to validate these findings and assess broader applicability.