993 Digital Monitoring of Paediatric Patients with Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis at A National Orthopaedic Centre

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) is a paediatric inflammatory bone condition requiring close monitoring by a multi-disciplinary team throughout childhood. Many UK patients are seen at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore for more than a decade of specialist management. Prior to the recent COVID crisis, we recognised need for more frequent monitoring without the inconvenience of cross-country travel and so piloted an online system of monitoring CRMO. Method(s): An online assessment form was created using the GDPR-compliant Qualtrics system after consultation with CRMO paediatricians and a specialist nurse. 3 medical students telephoned parents of 31 patients to pilot the assessment form. Responses indicating issues were then referred to the CNS for follow-up. Result(s): Response data confirmed need for close monitoring with 26% of respondents being seen quarterly, 29% reporting pain greater than 6/ 10, 29% having side-effects and 30% finding current treatment ineffective. 74% of respondents found online assessment extremely/very useful and 58% preferred it to face-to-face appointments. Conclusion(s): A digital CRMO monitoring tool can successfully identify patients with both new and ongoing issues. In the COVID and post- COVID era, digital tools can closely monitor patients with chronic conditions like CRMO whilst improving quality of life by reducing need for face-to-face appointments.