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Impact of  Coronavirus (COVID-19) on Otolaryngologic Surgery: A  Brief Commentary
  • +4
  • Darrin V. Bann,
  • Vijay A. Patel,
  • Robert Saadi,
  • John P. Gniady,
  • Neerav Goyal,
  • Johnathan D. McGinn,
  • David Goldenberg
Darrin V. Bann
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

Author Profile
Vijay A. Patel
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA
Robert Saadi
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA
John P. Gniady
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA
Neerav Goyal
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA
Johnathan D. McGinn
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA
David Goldenberg
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA

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.