Phillips et al. 1999
USA
Downs & Black score=12
Case Control
Initial N=37; Final N=35

Population: Mean age = 35 yrs.
Treatment: Videoconferencing was used to assist patients in treating and monitoring pressure ulcers.  Patients were divided into 3 groups: telephone, videophone, and standard care.
Outcome Measures: Number of pressure ulcers, emergency room (ER) visits, hospitalizations, doctor’s visits annually and employment rate.

1. Overall it was found that the video group reported the largest number of ulcers, followed by the standard care group and the telephone group.
2. The standard care group reported the lowest number of ER visits, hospitalizations, and health care provider visits.
3. The numbers of visits were similar for the other two groups.
4. Over half the members of each group had no hospitalizations during the study period.  It was also noted that 26% of the subjects had returned to work 6 mths after injury.

Vesmarovich et al. 1999 USA
Downs & Black score=10
Case Series
N=8

Population: Gender: M = 8; Age: 38-78 yrs; SCI
Treatment: The outpatient nurse using the Picasso Still Image Videophone conducted weekly telerehabiliatation visits.  Subjects and family members received 30 min of education; equipment was sent home with subjects.  Interviews were conducted to determine level of satisfaction
Outcome Measures: Number of ulcers healed, satisfaction.

No statistical results reported

1. Subjects were seen approx. 7 times (range 1-18 visits).
2. 7 wound sites healed completely, 2 needed surgery.
3. Subjects and family were highly satisfied.