Real-time telementoring in ophthalmology

Purpose: To determine if current telemedicine technology can support real-t ime telementoring to teach ophthalmologic surgical procedures in remote are as. Method: Using an integrated systems digital network (ISDN) line conveying i nformation at a rate of 128 kbps, an endoscopic laser-assisted dacryocystor hinostomy (ELA-DCR) procedure was transmitted in real time from the Saint F rancis Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, to ophthalmologists at the Makat i Medical Center in Manila, Philippines, more than 5000 miles away. Live su rgical and endoscopic images were sent real time with explanations by the s urgeon and with interactive questions and answers during and after the proc edure: Results: The ELA-DCR procedure was transmitted in real time from Honolulu t o more than 100 ophthalmologists at the Makati Medical Center in the Philip pines. Conclusion: Current technology in telemedicine can support the use of real- time surgical telementoring to teach complex ophthalmologic procedures.