Impact of coronavirus (COVID‐19) on otolaryngologic surgery: Brief commentary

Abstract

Background: The Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a global health crisis and otolaryngologists are at increased occupational risk of contracting COVID-19. There are currently no uniform best-practice recommendations for otolaryngologic surgery in the setting of COVID-19. Methods: We reviewed relevant publications and position statements regarding the management of otolaryngology patients in the setting of COVID-19.Recommendations regarding clinical practice during the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) outbreaks were also reviewed. Results: Enhanced personal protective equipment (N95 respirator and face shield or powered air-purifying respirator, disposable cap and gown, gloves) is required for any otolaryngology patient with unknown, suspected, or positive COVID-19 status. Elective procedures should be postponed indefinitely, and clinical practice should be limited to patients with urgent or emergent needs. Conclusion: We summarize current best-practice recommendations for otolaryngologists to ensure safety for themselves, their clinical staff, and their patients.

Head and neck cancer surgery in COVID-19 pandemic in Northern Italy

“…Surgery for head and neck tumors consists of high risk procedures because surgeons operate on possible locations of SARS-CoV-2, such as the upper respiratory tract. Its mucous membranes could harbor the virus and/or be the entry point of the virus into the human body [1,2]. Therefore, personal protective equipment is mandatory for otorhinolaryngologists and other healthcare workers dealing with head and neck cancer patients.…”

Care of immunocompromised patients with head and neck cancer during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Two challenging and informative clinical cases

“…If the decision is made to operate, appropriate PPE, such as an N95 mask with a face shield and eye protection, is of utmost importance to protect the entire surgical team as well as the patient. 8,[13][14][15] Telemedicine appointments and photographic monitoring should be used whenever feasible in order to allow home isolation. Most importantly, we recommend an honest discussion of the situation with the patient, taking into account their comfort and goals of care.…”

“…11 Anecdotal reports from Wuhan, China, report higher rates of infection specifically among otolaryngologists. [12][13][14][15] Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a currently scarce but essential resource for the aerosolizing procedures performed by otolaryngologists.…”

Cuidados Bucais em Pacientes Oncopediátricos durante a Pandemia de Covid-19: o Que Está Mudando?

“…Minimally invasive techniques should be indicated 9 , such as ART (Atraumatic Restoration Technique), chemomechanical and selective caries removal 10 . Any procedure must be performed with the use of protective barriers (gloves, N95 respirators, goggles, face shield, surgical hoods and gowns) for surgeons and assistants 11 , and goggles, hoods and aprons for patients. Dental rotational systems, triple syringe and aspiration system should also be carefully protected.…”