Teleophthalmology: the use of real-time telementoring to remove an orbital tumor

Ophthalmology. 2000 Aug;107(8):1468-71. doi: 10.1016/s0161-6420(00)00211-6.

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether current telemedicine technology can support real-time surgical telementoring to remove an orbital tumor.

Design: Interventional case report

Methods: An orbital specialist guided a general ophthalmologist in the removal of a lateral orbital tumor from a site 210 miles away on another island. A 3-mm endoscope connected to a three-chip digital video camera attached to a Concorde 4500 Picture-Tel videoconferencing system was used to transmit images at a rate of 384 kb per second over integrated service digital network lines.

Main outcome measures: Successful performance and outcome of the telementored procedure comparable to hands-on orbital surgery.

Results: The surgical procedure was successfully telementored with uncomplicated removal of the orbital tumor.

Conclusions: Current telemedicine technology can support real-time telementoring to remove an orbital tumor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Computer Systems
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lipoma / surgery*
  • Mentors*
  • Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures*
  • Orbital Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Remote Consultation / methods*