Filling a gap in literature, this concise and practical book presents the principles of virtual orthopedic assessment and shares insights into the use of technology for distance patient-physician communication. Offering expert know-how and best practices, it equips readers with essential information on how to best remotely manage the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients.

The book starts by defining telemedicine and presenting the basic requirements. The following chapters each focus on a specific joint or compartment, highlighting its peculiarities in terms of remote clinical assessment, and also discussing data security, patient confidentiality and consent as well as medico-legal issues. Moreover, the book features a dedicated chapter that analyzes specific issues related to remote assessment in children, older patients, noncompliant patients, and patients with pain.

Covering all the basic and practical aspects of this emerging field, this book is a must-read for orthopedists and other professionals, such as general practitioners and physiotherapists, wanting to gain insights into remote orthopedic patient care.

Introduction

What is telemedicine?
Basic requirements for proper virtual orthopedic assessment
Shoulder and upper arm
Elbow and forearm
Hand and wrist
Pelvis, hip and thigh
Knee
Lower leg, foot and ankle
Spine
Neurological assessment
Special issues and situation on telemedicine
Medico legal & confidentiality & data security & patients consents
Dealing with children and old age and noncompliant patients, and patients in pain
Other related issues.