Accuracy of Interpretation of Full-Length Pediatric Echocardiograms Transmitted Over an Integrated Services Digital Network Telemedicine Link

BACKGROUND: Transmission of echocardiograms via telemedicine links has allowed remote hospitals direct access to pediatric cardiology subspecialty care. This study assessed the accuracy of echocardiogram interpretation across an integrated services digital network (ISDN) telemedicine link. METHODS: Telemedicine systems were installed between Cape Fear Valley Medical Center neonatal intensive care unit and University of North Carolina Hospitals. One board-certified pediatric cardiologist interpreted 105 full-length echocardiograms that were videotaped and then transmitted over the system. Six months later, the same cardiologist reinterpreted the 105 original videotape studies from the off-site hospital and results were compared with the interpretations of the transmitted data. RESULTS: Interpretation of transmitted echocardiograms did not differ significantly from the original studies for diagnosis, evaluation of left ventricular function, valve function evaluation, and the presence of a ductus arteriosus. Minor differences in qualitative parameters were seen. CONCLUSION: Transmission of full-length echocardiograms over the ISDN telemedicine link is comparable to videotape review. There was no loss of significant clinical information, and the minor discrepancies noted did not impact management decisions.