The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered transformative change in how clinicians interact with their patients. There has been a shift away from face-to-face toward virtual consultations. However, the evidence to support this change in practice is unclear. The aim of this study was to systematically review the evidence base for virtual consultations for orthopaedics. Two independent reviewers performed a literature search based on PRISMA guidelines, utilizing the MEDLINE, EMBASE and Scopus databases. Only studies reporting outcomes following the use of telemedicine for diagnosis, consultation, rehabilitation, and follow-up were included. Outcomes analyzed were: 1) Patient and clinician satisfaction, 2) Clinical outcome measures, and 3) Cost analysis of traditional vs teleconsultation.Aims
Materials and Methods