The use of mobile devices has become increasingly popular in almost every aspect of life. Whether it is for communication, education, or recreation, they are progressively being seen as complimenting – if not replacing – the age-old personal computer. However, mobile devices are not limited to the personal space. We have now seen their emerging use in healthcare, which comprises of diverse issues to solve clinical problems and surgical education. Expanding access to the latest medical research at the point-of-care to communicating with surgeons globally in real time, surgery is now practiced in a technological era. We found that 94 % of Indian laparoscopic surgery trainees own a smartphone, with 61 % owning an iPhone. 89 % of trainees questioned had downloaded medical apps and used them regularly during clinical activities.
As mobile communications and related apps thrive, it is essential for surgeons to remain well informed. The emerging use of apps and mobile technologies in the healthcare setting has the potential to improve patient safety and reduce the alarming trend of rising medical error rates. Sometimes, finding apps that are relevant and useful can be a challenge. However, with LapGuru app that’s now available on the app store, this hurdle has largely been overcome. LapGuru app is designed to assist in point-of-care decisions, medical education and surgical training for Laparoscopic surgeons. While years of medical school are intended to prepare doctors for the operating room, the benefits of shared information and insights from seniors and colleagues working in the real world can’t be ignored. LapGuru app helps surgeons leverage this shared knowledge in multiple ways. Updates occur daily to provide the latest and most relevant information to the users.
LapGuru app currently features more than 2500 live surgery videos. Surgeons and their residents can refresh their knowledge of operative anatomy when preparing for procedures. It puts instant updates at surgeons’ fingertips when reference books may not be practical. For example, if you want to learn lap chole, there are more than 300 videos that probably show you all the possible variations that you will typically encounter in a lap chole. It applies to hernia, bariatric or any other procedure as well. It offers opportunities for surgeons to support preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative care. For trainees, this app is vital to satisfy surgical training requirements and may assist surgeons with documentation for practice purposes. Surgeons can also comment and ask questions while a live surgery transmission. They can also watch CME conferences live via the app.
There is ample opportunity for technology to advance healthcare on multiple levels. Empowering surgeons with the right tools allows them to play a more proactive role in patient care as they can have access to wider medical knowledge. As the next generation of technology-oriented laparoscopic surgeons progress through training and begin practicing, it appears inevitable that LapGuru app popularity and desirability will only grow. LapGuru app will help improve surgical performance and safety, thus increasing the quality of medical care.
