Page 158 - Ebook-Book JCMS 2025

The Role of Digital Health and Remote Monitoring in
Postoperative Orthopedic Care: A Meta-Analysis of Recovery
and Patient Satisfaction
Chawakrit Pansritoom*
Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital
*Corresponding Author E-mail: newsc27032014@gmail.com
Background: Abstract
Postoperative recovery in orthopedic surgery relies heavily on effective rehabilitation, timely
complication detection, and patient engagement. In recent years, digital health tools—
such as telemonitoring platforms, wearable sensors, and mobile health applications—
have emerged to optimize postoperative care by enhancing real-time feedback, improving
adherence, and reducing unnecessary clinic visits. However, the impact of these
technologies on recovery outcomes and patient satisfaction remains inconsistently
reported. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effectiveness of digital health and remote
monitoring interventions in postoperative orthopedic care, with a focus on recovery
parameters and patient-reported satisfaction.
Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted across PubMed, MED-
LINE, and Scopus through April 2025. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials
and cohort studies comparing digital health–supported postoperative care with standard
in-person follow-up among patients undergoing orthopedic procedures. Primary outcomes
were functional recovery metrics (e.g. range of motion, timed up and go, or PROMs), while
secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction scores and readmission or complication
rates.
Results: Fifteen studies involving 3,728 patients met inclusion criteria. Patients receiving digital
health interventions demonstrated significantly improved early recovery, with better
functional scores at 6 weeks post-op (Standardized Mean Difference: 0.39 [0.25, 0.53]; p <
0.00001). Patient satisfaction was higher in the digital health group (OR: 1.92 [1.43, 2.58];
p < 0.0001). No significant difference was observed in complication rates (OR: 0.98 [0.72,
1.32]; p = 0.89) or readmission rates (OR: 1.05 [0.84, 1.32]; p = 0.67).
Conclusion: Digital health and remote monitoring interventions enhance early functional recovery
and improve patient satisfaction following orthopedic surgery, without increasing
complications. These findings support the integration of digital care models to promote
sustainable, patient-centered recovery in modern orthopedic practice. Further studies are
warranted to define optimal implementation strategies across diverse populations and
procedures.
156 Joint Conference in Medical Sciences 2025