A randomized trial of multimedia-facilitated informed consent for cataract surgery

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the value and role of patient’s education videos in the informed consent process for patients undergoing preoperative assessment of cataracts. DESIGN: The study is a single-center prospective randomized controlled trial. SUBJECTS, PARTICIPANTS, AND/OR CONTROLS: Participants enrolled in this study were specifically those undergoing first-time phacoemulsification cataract surgery with the placement of a monofocal lens implant. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: Subjects were randomized to either face-to-face surgeon-informed consent with a preceding education video or face-to-face surgeon-informed consent alone. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The main outcome measures assessed were time to complete the informed consent process, patient’s satisfaction, and patient’s comprehension. RESULTS: The video and control groups were similar in satisfaction (4.67±0.104 video vs. 4.53±0.133 control; P=0.43) and comprehension (79.4%±2.82% video vs. 79.3%±3.39% control; P=0.99). Counseling time was statistically significantly different (117.5±10.9 seconds video versus 241.6±13.0 seconds control; P<0.0001). CONCLUSION: Use of a patient’s education video for cataract surgery was associated with reduced physician counseling time yet similar comprehension and patient-reported satisfaction when compared with traditional counseling methods.