The importance and problems of telemedicine in neurosurgery

Abstract

Telemedicine has been defined as a remote communication system using information and communication technology (ICT) between doctors or between doctor and patient. Recent advances in ICT including mobile devices and wireless local area networks have enabled adequate telemedicine communication between definite points and mobile points. With the ever-increasing demands of stroke management, using telemedicine to shorten decision making time is becoming an important factor in best-practice treatment. This article summarizes the importance and unsolved issues of telemedicine associated with neurosurgical practice.