NCT07420114 · University of Chicago
Outpatient Visits Versus Telehealth for Postoperative Care After Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
(Telehealth RCT)
What this study is about
Telehealth, or telemedicine, utilizes technology to deliver clinical care remotely, either in real time or asynchronously, between clinician and patient.
View original scientific description
Telehealth, or telemedicine, utilizes technology to deliver clinical care remotely, either in real time or asynchronously, between clinician and patient. Telemedicine has been successfully implemented to increase healthcare delivery for patients in rural areas with otherwise long travel times, and studies have also determined that telemedicine can increase patient satisfaction scores while simultaneously decreasing direct and indirect costs for patients. Previous scholarship has demonstrated that telemedicine can be a safe alternative to face-to-face postoperative visits for surgical patients, streamlining recovery with no significant delays in the diagnosis of surgical complications. As healthcare systems continue to emphasize value-based care, it is important to assess whether virtual postoperative visits effectively meet patient needs while optimizing resource utilization. Patient-reported outcomes and satisfaction surveys can help identify potential gaps in care and ensure that telehealth is implemented in a way to maximize both efficiency and quality. Our primary objective is to determine whether patient satisfaction with postoperative telehealth follow-up is non-inferior to in-person clinic visits.
Primary outcome measures
Patient satisfaction with surgery and postoperative visits
Time frame: 3 months
Satisfaction scores will be compiled from participant responses to the Surgical-Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (S-CAHPS) questionnaire. This questionnaire was developed by the American College of Surgeons and includes seven composites: (1) information to help prepare for surgery, (2) surgeon communication preoperatively, (3) surgeon attentiveness on the day of surgery, (4) information to help during recovery, (5) surgeon communication after surgery, (6) qualities of office staff, and (7) an overall surgeon rating. Specific attention will be paid to participant ratings of items 4, 5, and 7.
Patient satisfaction with virtual care delivery
Time frame: 3 months
Satisfaction scores will be compiled from responses to the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ): a validated tool of 21 questions used to assess patients' and providers' perceptions of telehealth systems. It evaluates domains such as ease of use, interface quality, interaction quality, reliability, and overall satisfaction, providing a structured way to measure and improve telehealth user experience (graded on a 5-point Likert scale).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participant has provided written informed consent.
- Women over the age of 18.
- Ability for patients to complete telehealth visits (i.e. working telephone or internet access) and speak and understand English.
- Laparoscopic or robotic surgeries including: excision of endometriosis, adnexal surgery with oophorectomy or cystectomy, myomectomy, and hysterectomy.
- Undergoing minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries with complex pelvic surgeons (AAGL fellowship-trained).
Exclusion criteria
- Conversion to open surgery.
- Malignancy noted intraoperatively or on final pathology evaluation.
- Surgeon or patient preference for in person clinic follow up.
- Pregnancy - pregnancy tests will be completed as part of routine preoperative care on the day of surgery
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
- Hinsdale, Illinois
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Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations