Background

Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) has been used for chronic conditions such as congestive heart failure, where close communication is critical to providing clinical care. The use of RPM after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) in adolescents has not been evaluated. Here we report our experience.

Methods

VivifyHealth™ RPM systems consisting of bluetooth enabled weigh scale, blood pressure kit and pulse oximeter were given to patients at discharge. The devices connect to iOS and Android cloud based applications. A pathway map was created prompting patients to provide measurements daily and answer questions about wound appearance, fever, pain level, nausea and water/protein intake. Surgery staff checked the responses through the cloud and provided guidance based on predetermined triggers. IRB approval was obtained.

Results

69 patients received RPM Kits. 4820 notifications were generated; 3062 from pathway non-compliance, 1127 from biometric responses, 340 missed biometrics and 208 from survey responses. 2.4 calls (range 1-7) per patient were made in response to notifications. Only 2 patients were directed to the emergency room. All other issues were managed at home. 10 call generating inputs were errors and 5 were related to kit use. The use of the kits waned dramatically 90 days after surgery and 85% of the kits have been returned.

Conclusions

RPM is a feasible option for post-operative monitoring in adolescents undergoing MBS. It is user friendly and utilizes technology patients already possess. RPM data can be used proactively by the surgical team to contact patients and reduce care delays.