181 Enhancing Postoperative Care Through Remote Wound Monitoring: A Quality Improvement Study Using a Digital Platform in Incisional Hernia Surgery

Abstract Aim To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a remote wound monitoring platform in enhancing postoperative care following complex incisional hernia repair. Method We conducted a prospective observational study of 122 patients who underwent incisional hernia surgery between September 2024 and March 2025. All eligible patients were enrolled into a structured remote monitoring programme using the Isla digital platform, which allows secure, asynchronous submission of wound photographs and symptom checklists. Clinical and demographic data were collected to assess patient engagement, wound outcomes, and accessibility across subgroups. Results Of 121 eligible patients, 94.2 percent enrolled in the Isla platform and 87.7 percent submitted wound data postoperatively. The reported surgical site infection (SSI) rate was 9.0 percent. Wound dehiscence occurred in 15.4 percent of cases, with 8.1 percent being superficial and 4.1 percent involving deeper layers. Antibiotic use for wound concerns was recorded in 5.7 percent of patients. Two patients required escalation for in person review. Clinicians reviewed submissions within 24 hours, and patients reported high ease of use and satisfaction. Only two required technical support. Engagement was consistent across age, ethnicity, and distance from hospital, with some patients living over 400 miles away. Conclusions Remote wound monitoring through the Isla platform was feasible, safe, and well accepted. It enabled early identification of complications and reduced dependence on routine in person reviews. This approach shows promise as a complementary strategy in postoperative care, especially in short stay surgical pathways.