Comparison of assessment and follow-up for benign eyelid lesions: Tele-oculoplastic application versus face-to-face visits in Thammasat hospital.
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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 1st and August 31st, 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.
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