Effects of videoconferencing intervention on stroke survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled studies

Background: Videoconferencing has been proposed as an innovative telerehabilitation approach for stroke survivors, demand for which is growing. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of a videoconferencing intervention for stroke survivors. Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the literature in the databases Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, Ovid (and its companion UpToDate), and Web of Science published from January 1, 2002, to May 27, 2021. The methodologic quality of the included studies was evaluated using version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. A meta-analysis using a random-effects model calculated the pooled standardised mean difference (SMD) for using a videoconferencing intervention with stroke survivors and for the ability of survivors to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and to maintain balance. The Stata software application (version 16.0: StataCorp LP) was used for the statistical analysis. Results: Nine studies with 603 participants were included in the analysis. Videoconferencing interventions were observed to be effective in improving the ability of stroke survivors to carry out their ADLs (SMD: 0.57; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.13 to 1.01) and to recover their balance (SMD: 1.96; 95% CI: 1.27 to 2.66). Conclusions: Stroke survivors were able effectively to improve their ADL and balancing abilities. Further studies could consider the frequency, duration, and standard protocol for videoconferencing interventions. Relevance to Clinical Practice: This study could change the approach to patient support in future clinical practice and might constitute an alternative for improving care for stroke survivors in their homes or in long-term care facilities.