The Implementation of Educational Videos in Mohs Micrographic Surgery for Improved Patient Satisfaction and Comprehension: A Review of Literature

Background: Patients are reported to understand less than half of the information communicated to them by physicians. In an effort to better promote patient education, instructional videos have been implemented in surgical specialties, with demonstrable improvement in patient satisfaction and knowledge. In Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS), Mohs surgeons have begun to implement educational videos to supplement the traditional informed consent discussion and wound care demonstration. Objective: To review published literature to determine if video education in MMS can improve patient satisfaction and comprehension of their procedure. Methods: A review of literature was performed using the PubMed database from 2000 to 2020. The articles selected focused on the implementation of educational videos in Mohs surgery for improvement of the informed consent process, post-surgical wound care instructions, and overall patient satisfaction and comprehension. Results: A total of seven articles met the criteria for review. The videos were noted to improve certain aspects of the informed consent discussion, including a patient’s knowledge on the procedural risks. In regard to wound care education, some patients preferred video education to surgeon instruction. While patient comprehension was similar between the intervention and control groups, most studies demonstrated overall patient satisfaction. In addition, the results noted that most patients who watched a video would recommend it to a peer undergoing MMS. Conclusion: Educational videos have demonstrated promise for patient education in MMS and patients are receptive to learn from them.