Adapting Surgical Practices Amidst COVID-19: Ensuring Safety Through Protocols, PPE, and Testing in Emergency Surgeries
Sasi Kumar S 1, Gopinath S 2, Kalaichezhian M 3, Harish M 4*
Journal of Angiotherapy 6(1) 1-4 https://doi.org/10.25163/angiotherapy.6122191290707122
Submitted: 29 November 2021 Revised: 11 December 2021 Published: 07 January 2022
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted surgical practices worldwide, leading to the postponement of non-emergency surgeries and requiring the implementation of new safety protocols. This study examines changes in surgical protocols during the pandemic to minimize virus transmission. Methods: A case report of a 45-year-old male requiring emergency surgery was analyzed. Preoperative management included strict infection control protocols, real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) testing, and full personal protective equipment (PPE) usage. The surgery was conducted in a negative pressure operating room, with minimal staff present, followed by rigorous postoperative monitoring. Results: The surgery was successfully performed without complications. The patient tested negative for COVID-19 preoperatively and postoperatively, and the surgical team remained healthy. During the study period (January–October 2020), 50 surgeries were performed, with no COVID-19 transmissions recorded among patients or staff. Conclusion: Strict infection control measures, preoperative COVID-19 testing, and the use of negative pressure environments allowed emergency surgeries to be performed safely. These protocols effectively minimized the risk of virus transmission, demonstrating that life-saving surgeries can continue during a pandemic when proper precautions are followed. This framework provides valuable guidance for healthcare systems managing surgical practices during current and future pandemics.
Keywords: COVID-19, surgery, infection control, pandemic, personal protective equipment (PPE).
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