The Use of Smartphone Video Feature for Diagnosis and Counseling of a Propofol-Induced Acute Dystonic Reaction in a Pediatric Patient

The propofol-induced acute dystonic reaction is a rare postoperative complication. We report the case of a 17-year-old male with a history of acid reflux and ulcerative colitis who underwent a colonoscopy under general anesthesia and developed an acute dystonic reaction postoperatively. With his mother's written consent, his movements and physical examination were filmed on a smartphone for diagnostic and educational purposes. Total cessation of all movements occurred following administration of diphenhydramine and benztropine. The video proved useful in documenting this rare complication and in counseling the patient. With hospitals moving towards secured platforms to communicate patient information, the use of smartphones to capture a patient's disease process is now possible without violating the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.