Development of a mobile app for the evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis^☆

Abstract

Objective

To develop a mobile application with a standardized routine, to be used by general otolaryngologists for evaluating patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.

Methods

A systematic review was made to identify outcomes, recommendations and what tests that would be used in the routine evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis; establish an expert consensus on items to be included in this routine evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis using the Delphi method; development of an application for use on a mobile device, with the routine evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.

Results

Based on the systematic review, the outcomes used in studies about chronic rhinosinusitis were identified, as well as guidelines recommendations, which showed discrepancies between them. These recommendations and outcomes were presented to specialists in chronic rhinosinusitis, until a consensus was reached. As a result of the Delphi method, the flowchart of the routine evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis was defined, and then was used for the development of the mobile application.

Conclusion

The creation of the mobile application for evaluating patients with chronic rhinosinusitis followed an adequate methodology of elaboration made by specialists in the field of chronic rhinosinusitis, standardizing the investigation of these patients.

Level of evidence: Level 5.

Keywords
Nasal polyps; Paranasal sinus diseases; Rhinitis; Sinusitis; Asthma, mobile application

Highlights

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis are a heterogeneous group.

There are regional diferences of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.

Chronic rhinosinusitis international guidelines are not unanimous.

An expert consensus can standardize the care of these patients.

The creation of a mobile application make the expert consensus more accessible to use.