A cost-consequence analysis of eLearning videos designed to supplement the consent process in lower limb arthroplasty

Introduction Since the Montgomery ruling in 2015 surgeons have been tasked with identifying material risk when taking informed consent. Despite this, there has been limited uptake of technological aids to supplement the consent process although such aids are shown to improve patient knowledge and satisfaction. ConsentPLUS is a free-to-access website with bite-sized educational videos designed to clearly explain lower limb arthroplasty procedures to patients and aid their consent. Methods The authors performed a prospective cost-consequence analysis, outlining any costs associated with the intervention and any quantitative or qualitative impacts the intervention may have on patients. Results A total of 3,143 consecutive patients were identified who were undergoing total knee or hip replacement in 25 elective NHS orthopaedic units. The total cost of development and projected 10-year running fees for ConsentPLUS total 75,000 pound. Health Foundation support means the service is free- to-access for centres throughout the UK. Mean exposure time per patient was 10min 29s, equivalent to 185,437 pound of additional contact time according to the National Tariff. Mean clinic time was reduced by 17min owing to the earlier identification of material risk. Patient knowledge on pre- and post-video quizzes increased from 7.01 to 9.08 following eLearning (paired t-test = 0.998). The process had an overall satisfaction rate of 97%. Conclusion Educational eLearning videos are an accessible and digestible way to supplement the consent process. This enables earlier identification of material risk in clinics owing to improved patient knowledge, leading to increased patient satisfaction with arthroplasty consenting.

Automated summary

Since the Montgomery ruling in 2015, surgeons have been required to identify material risk during informed consent. However, the use of technological aids to supplement the consent process has been limited, despite evidence of their ability to improve patient knowledge and satisfaction. ConsentPLUS is a free-to-access website that provides educational videos to explain lower limb arthroplasty procedures to patients and aid in their consent. Rating: 8 out of 10.