Doctor Google, A Friendly Neighbour, or A Nosy Misleader?

Abstract

Background: Retinal detachment requires early diagnosis and prompt treatment to prevent visual morbidity. With the growth of internet and smart-phone users in India, the access to medical information has grown exponentially, resulting in occasionally undesirable exposure that may impact the patient's perception of surgery. 

Methods: We report a case of retinal detachment where access to surgical videos of scleral buckling aggravated severe stress and anxiety in the patient, resulting in deferral of surgery. 

Conclusion: Judicious use of peer-reviewed surgical videos made by qualified professionals may prove to be a boon and may allay the patient’s fears instead of aggravating them. However, unfiltered use of available information, especially surgical videos, may instill fear and promote anxiety.