Teledermatology: Its role in dermatosurgery

Abstract

Dermatologic surgery and aesthetic dermatology are rapidly emerging and expanding specialties in India. However, dermatologists practicing surgeries and aesthetics in India represent a highly selected group and are mostly confined to metros. Dermatologists in the peripheral and remote regions need to reach these specialists for the benefit of their patients and teledermatology is an invaluable tool for this purpose. Video-conference, store and forward, Satellite communication, Hybrid teledermatology, mobile teledermatology, Integration model, nurse-led teledermatology, teledermatology focusing difficult-to-manage cases, screening and triage services are the various teledermatology services developed to suit the needs of dermatology care from a distance. Types of teledermatology service, pattern of net work connectivity and purpose of dermatology service are the three cardinal parameters for management of the dermatoses from a distance. This article reviews the literature, and analyzes the possible options available for a teledermatosurgery practice.