Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To realize multi-modal data exchange for telemedicine in epilepsy. METHODS: TE Ruhr is a multicenter, prospective pilot study. Primary endpoint of the study was the technical implementation of a platform between an epilepsy center and regional neurological departments and international cooperating epilepsy centers, respectively. A multi-professional board was established to develop technical workflows. After completion of the study a survey was conducted among users of the regional arm. RESULTS: Two workflows were developed, 1) a combination of web-application and use of an established teleradiology network, and 2) a web-application only data exchange. Technical workflow 1 comprised local EEG conversion into to a standard format (.besa) and its shipping as DICOM RAW object. Technically, both workflows could be implemented. Yet, workflow 1 was not realisable in peripheral hospitals. Via workflow 2, 149 consults for 144 patients were completed. Users of the regional arm were satisfied (1.6 on a grading scale of 1-6 (1-very good, 6- very bad)). CONCLUSION: Technical feasibility alone does not determine the actual use of telemedicine. Web applications enables multimodal data exchange, but usability is limited due to lack of interoperability. SIGNIFICANCE: Genuine interoperability of medical data remains the desired goal for multi modal data exchange.