Telemedicine in surgical and anesthetic care in urban and rural settings across time: a scoping review

Telemedicine has expanded in surgical and anesthetic care, yet its use across geographies, specialties, and time remains incompletely characterized. We conducted a scoping review of telemedicine in surgical and anesthetic care in Canada, the United States, and Australia, following JBI methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidance. Of 9923 records screened, 98 met inclusion criteria. Studies spanned 1992–2024, with 61.2% appearing since 2020. Most originated in the United States (61.2%), followed by Canada (21.4%) and Australia (17.3%). Common applications included postoperative follow-up (60.2%), specialist consultation (42.9%), and preoperative screening (34.7%). Video and telephone predominated, while app- and web-based platforms increased from 2020 onwards. Rural-framed studies (39.8%) emphasized specialist access, preoperative triage, and reduced travel. Across studies, telemedicine was frequently reported to have similar short-term clinical outcomes to in-person care, high patient satisfaction, and reduced travel-related costs. Further comparative research is needed to better characterize costs, access, and clinical outcomes associated with telemedicine.