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Review
. 2021;44(4):429-434.
doi: 10.1007/s00238-021-01802-8. Epub 2021 Feb 13.

e-Health and telemedicine implementation in facial paralysis: challenges and pitfalls

Elijah E Sanches  1 , Frank W de Jongh  1   2 , Koen J A O Ingels  3 , Sjaak Pouwels  4
Affiliations
Review

e-Health and telemedicine implementation in facial paralysis: challenges and pitfalls

Elijah E Sanches et al. Eur J Plast Surg. 2021.

Abstract

During the current Covid-19 pandemic, a lot of changes had to be made in the care of patients with facial nerve paralysis (FNP). FNP is a life-changing condition with effects on both physical (both esthetic and functional) and psychological aspects of the patient's life. Telemedicine could be a suitable alternative in the therapy for these patients, since it is often not possible to travel to outpatient clinics or to have normal face-to-face appointments with treating physicians because of pandemic restrictions. This review provides an overview of the current literature in the treatment of FNP during the pandemic and the role of telemedicine/e-Health. Secondly, we will discuss the challenges and pitfalls of implementing e-Health and telemedicine applications in clinical practice. Level of evidence: Not ratable.

Keywords: Digital; Facial paralysis; Facial plastic surgery; Mobile application; Mobile health; Telemedicine; e-Health.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interestElijah E. Sanches, Frank W. de Jongh, K.J.A.O. Ingels, and Sjaak Pouwels declare no conflict of interest.

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