Examining the Impact of Telehealth Stoma Care Interventions on the Ostomates: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

ABSTRACT

Aim

To assess telehealth stoma care interventions' impact on stoma adjustment, self-efficacy, anxiety and ostomates' quality of life.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

Methods

Studies published until April 2025 were searched across eight databases—MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov and PQDT Global. Randomised controlled trials with individuals aged 18 and older who received telehealth stoma care interventions were included. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model, with the GRADE approach employed to evaluate evidence certainty. This systematic review and meta-analysis complied with the PRISMA guideline and PRISMA 2020 checklist.

Results

Eight studies were included in the meta-analysis. Telehealth interventions significantly improved stoma adjustment (SMD: 1.44, 95% CI: 0.22–2.66) and self-efficacy (MD: 10.23, 95% CI: 3.01–17.44), but did not significantly affect anxiety, while results regarding the effect on quality of life were inconsistent. Three studies showed a high risk of bias, while five showed some concerns. Evidence certainty was moderate for stoma adjustment, self-efficacy and stoma quality of life, and low for anxiety.

Conclusion

Telehealth can enhance stoma adjustment and self-efficacy, thereby improving management. However, the limited and inconsistent findings on anxiety and quality of life outcomes underscore the need for further high-quality research.

Impact

This review demonstrates that telehealth stoma care can be vital in improving stoma adjustment and self-efficacy in ostomates.

Reporting Method

The PRISMA 2020 checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

Not Applicable.