285 Utility of Virtual New-Patient Clinics in Women Under 30. (19th August 2022) - Morton, J
Abstract: Aim: Virtual consultations (VC) in breast surgery have been successfully utilised during the COVID pandemic and have potential to reduce the costs of outpatient clinics as well as increase patient satisfaction. We aimed to assess the utility and safety of VC in new patient clinics in women under 30, which are considered a low-risk subgroup. Method: Data was prospectively collected on 118 women aged under 30 who were referred from primary care to the breast clinic between December 2020 and April 2021. Clinicopathological data was collected on referrals, imaging and follow up. Results: Median age was 24 years (range 17–30). The commonest presenting symptoms were a lump (69%), breast pain (16%) and nipple symptoms (14%). The VC was performed via video in 63 (53%) patients and via telephone alone in 55 (47%). Nineteen patients (16%) were reassured and discharged directly from VC. Ninety-four patients (80%) underwent an outpatient ultrasound with a sonographer trained in clinical palpation. Twenty-six (27%) ultrasounds showed benign pathology with the remainder being normal. Six biopsies were performed, all of which were benign. Seventeen (14%) patients required a face-to-face appointment with a breast surgeon after ultrasound or biopsy. Ninety-four (79%) patients were discharged after VC + ultrasound alone. No patients required surgery. Conclusions: Utilising VC, the majority of new referrals in women under 30 did not require face-to-face appointments. VC have potential to reduce burden on new patient clinics whilst improving patient convenience. Early data suggest a low risk of compromising safety in this subgroup.