Wireframe of a Total Knee Arthroplasty app
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Total knee arthroplasty and mHealth: A Proposal for the Development of an Evidence-backed App Wireframe to Support Patient Rehabilitation Post-TKA
IRAS ID
321688
Contact name
Joanna Shim
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Robert Gordon University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Research Summary:
Following Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) surgery, rehabilitation contributes to a return to normal activity and function. The costs associated with the large quantity of TKA surgeries performed, the length of time associated with full recovery, and the travel required of TKA patients who live in rural areas all can all be mitigated by the integration of a mobile application to support TKA rehabilitation.
While mobile apps that aim to support TKA rehabilitation do exist, the majority are either not evidence based or lack stakeholder development in their design. The aim of this project is to develop a wireframe (blueprint) of a mobile app (mobile application) that supports individuals in their recovery following total knee replacement surgery. The project is divided into two phases:
The first phase involves data gathering using a scoping review to map all interventions and outcome measures used in mobile apps for lower limb joint replacement rehabilitation. Additionally, app features and evidence of stakeholder involvement will also be assessed for both published apps found in the Google Play and Apple app stores and for apps published in journal articles and grey literature sources.
The second phase is a qualitative study using online focus groups with patients who had undergone TKA and physiotherapists with experience delivering TKA rehabilitation, to further develop the mobile app. We will also explore any barriers and facilitators to rehabilitation. A draft of the wireframe will then be produced and shared with participants of the co-production. The intervention will undergo an iterative process of refinement and feedback. This study is an important step to informing the contents of a mobile intervention for TKA to enhance better patient outcomes following TKA.
Summary of results:
Knee replacement surgery is becoming more common in Scotland and around the world, helping many people regain movement and quality of life - though recovery can often take up to a year. New mobile phone technologies (“mHealth”) are increasingly used to help people recover after surgery, offering faster, more flexible support. However, many of these apps are developed quickly, and not all are carefully tested for effectiveness.
This PhD study aimed to create a new mobile app designed especially for people recovering from knee replacement surgery. The app was developed by combining proven medical evidence with real experiences of patients and physiotherapists. To make sure the app truly meets the needs of both patients and professionals, the study team worked closely with stakeholders at every stage.
The research began with a large review of existing mobile health apps for joint replacement recovery. The team found 68 relevant studies, but only three involved patients or healthcare professionals in app design, and none fully engaged them throughout the process. Many apps measured progress differently and few checked long-term results.
Using the latest research and direct input from patients and physiotherapists, the team built a new app “blueprint.” The final app design includes three main features: (1) Tools to track rehabilitation and recovery progress, (2) Educational resources tailored to different learning needs, and (3) Easy access to further support and advice.
The app is designed to help with self-management—offering personalised exercise plans, progress tracking, and helpful information.
This work lays the foundation for a full version of the app in the future. The next step will be to build and test the prototype, making sure it is both useful and user-friendly for those recovering from knee replacement surgery.
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REC name
London - Harrow Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/PR/1031
Date of REC Opinion
1 Nov 2023
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion