Reliableness of Telegram between different evaluators in emergency general surgery practice

Abstract

Background: 'Telegram' is a popularly used social media application in routine clinical practice, often for communication between a resident doctor and a consultant. The purpose of this study is to establish the reliableness of the data transmitted through telegram to validate its use in general surgery practice.Methods: Clinical findings and computerized tomographic (CT) images of 180 patients visiting the trauma center and emergency department were posted in a closed Telegram group involving three consultants (SSC, NBP, and LSB). The CT images were posted in the Telegram group as complete picture (CP) and picture of interest (POI) format and rated on a scale of 1-5. The consultants formulated a temporary diagnosis and initial management plan. The reliableness between different evaluators of these feedbacks was analyzed in our study.Results: Mean CP rating ranged from 3.03±0.61 to 3.73±0.64 [Cronbach alfa (α)-0.494, p=0.006]. Mean POI rating ranged from 3.4±0.56 to 4.13±0.73 (α-0.824, p<0.0001). For diagnosis, the proportion of observed agreement (P0) was 83.3% for SSC and NP, 76.6% for SSC and LB, and 73.3% for NBP and LSB. For management, P0 was 86.6% for NBP and LSB, 86.6% for SSC and NBP, and 80% for SSC and LSB.Conclusions: Telegram messenger serves to transmit good quality pictures of CT scan images. A reasonable diagnosis and management strategy can be formulated using this app with a fair reliableness between different evaluators.