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Evaluation of mobile applications for patients with fecal incontinence using a modified APPLICATIONS scoring system

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Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Mobile applications (apps) are becoming an increasingly popular means of obtaining medical information. The aim of our study was to identify and evaluate patient-centered fecal incontinence (FI) mobile apps using a modified APPLICATIONS scoring system.

Methods

We conducted searches in the Apple App and Google Play stores to identify FI-related mobile apps using search terms reflecting both commonly accepted medical terms as well as colloquial terms used by our patients with FI. Apps that were in English, relevant to FI, patient-centered, and medically accurate were included. Each eligible app was then independently evaluated by the three authors using a modified 17-point APPLICATIONS scoring system.

Results

We identified 2785 apps upon initial search using FI search terms. Fourteen apps met eligibility criteria for scoring. Most apps were bowel movement trackers (13/14, 93%), of which only three allowed for tracking of FI episodes. Only one (7%) app contained educational information specific to FI. Ten (71%) apps were fully functional at no cost. Thirteen (93%) apps cited literature. Median APPLICATIONS score was 10 (IQR 9–11). “BristolStoolChart,” “FreeToBe,” and “PoopLog” each received the highest total score of 13.

Conclusions

Patient-centered mobile apps that provide FI-specific educational information or allow for FI symptom tracking are scarce. While we did discover some accurate sources of information and means of tracking bowel habits, patients are likely to encounter inaccurate or irrelevant information even when searching for FI-related apps using appropriate terminology. Future app development should include FI-specific symptom tracking and educational information from reputable sources.

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Acknowledgments

Presented at the American Urogynecologic Society PFD Week 2020, Short Oral Presentation, October 10, 2020.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women’s Health, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA

    Marisa Vega, Elishia Renee Mckay & Priyanka Kadam Halani

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  1. Marisa Vega
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  2. Elishia Renee Mckay
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  3. Priyanka Kadam Halani
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Correspondence to Marisa Vega.

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M Vega: No conflicts of interest to declare.

ER Mckay: No conflicts of interest to declare.

PK Halani: No conflicts of interest to declare.

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Vega, M., Mckay, E.R. & Halani, P.K. Evaluation of mobile applications for patients with fecal incontinence using a modified APPLICATIONS scoring system. Int Urogynecol J 32, 2529–2536 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-021-04918-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-021-04918-4

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