Implementation of postoperative digital surveillance in the COVID era
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Implementation of postoperative digital surveillance in the COVID era
IRAS ID
295326
Contact name
Ewen Harrison
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 31 days
Research summary
Wound infections are the most common complications after surgery on the abdomen (for example bowel surgery or Caesarean sections). Up to 1 in 9 patients develop these in “high-income countries” (HIC) like the UK. Earlier diagnosis and treatment of SSI can reduce its impact.
We have developed a unique wound tele-monitoring software at the University of Edinburgh and demonstrated in a randomised controlled trial (n = 492 patients), that time to diagnosis of wound infection can be significantly reduced (p = 0.043). The software combines an algorithm-based patient-reported questionnaire with smartphone-delivered wound photographs.
We now want to optimise this solution for large scale implementation by:
• Identifying and developing a clear pathway to implementation
• Optimising the system for maximum effectiveness in a wide clinical setting.
• Developing a commercial version of the software in partnership with an industrial partner for deployment across NHS and global health systems.REC name
West of Scotland REC 3
REC reference
21/WS/0046
Date of REC Opinion
6 May 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion