Hd. Vuyk et al., THE ROLE OF COMPUTER IMAGING IN FACIAL PLASTIC-SURGERY CONSULTATION -A CLINICAL-STUDY, Clinical otolaryngology and allied sciences, 23(3), 1998, pp. 235-243
The influence of using computerized visual communication on preoperati
ve communication between the surgeon and the patient was analysed. Thi
s was a retrospective study based on a questionnaire completed by 50 p
atients who had undergone various facial plastic surgical procedures.
Prediction tracings and postoperative slides were compared by the surg
eon. The role of computer imaging in communication between doctor and
patient, as well as the patient-doctor relationship and trust in the j
udgement of the doctor was considered to be positive by most of the pa
tients. The vast majority of patients thought computer imaging should
be a routine part of preoperative evaluation. Both the surgeon and the
patients agreed that the representative value of prediction tracing w
as about 80%. In view of the possible positive influences on communica
tion and relationship in the preoperative phase, computer imaging may
help to provide a clear and realistic preoperative Informed consent.