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.