SP1.07 Digital follow-up of high-volume low complexity general surgical patients is safe, acceptable to patients and saves resources. A 1 year pilot study

Aim To explore the value of digital follow up on identifying post operative complications, readmission rates and patient satisfaction for follow-up of high-volume low complexity (HVLC) general surgical patient. Method In 2023, no routine post-operative follow-up for HVLC was provided. In 2024, patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, hernia repair or anti reflux surgery were sent a text message with postoperative information and an invitation to a digital follow up platform. Patients were asked to submit a questionnaire and photographs of their wounds postoperatively, which were reviewed Outcomes would be repeat questionnaire in 7 days, clinical review or discharge with a satisfaction survey to complete. Results 389 patients completed the 7 day post operative questionnaire, table 1 shows HVLC data. Table 1HVLC DataDigital submissions from patients who participate in study 1st Jan 2024 – 1st Jan 20251st Jan 2023 -1st Jan 2024Had surgery10471084Patients who completed 7 day post operative questionnaire389Invited but did not consent20 (3.7%)Contacted for outpatient appointment29 (7.4%)STU attendance16 (4%)93 (8.6%)Did not consent to study STU attendance7 (35%)Patients not in study658STU attendance of patients not in study75 (12%) A patient survey showed high satisfaction 117 (90%) with the digital follow-up process, saving time 108 (87%), and avoiding transport costs 57 (46%). Conclusions This study demonstrate that digital follow-up is safe, acceptable to patients, will save face-to-face clinical time, improve patient convenience and will reduce expensive STU attendances