Simulation of aerosol and droplet spread during upper airway and gastrointestinal endoscopy

Heymer, J.; Dengler, F.; Krohn, A.; Jaki, C.; Schilling, T.; Mueller-Schilling, M.; Kandulski, A.; Ott, M.

Objective: Aerosols and droplets are the main vectors in transmission of highly contagious SARS-Cov-2. Invasive diagnostic procedures like upper airway and gastrointestinal endoscopy have been declared as aerosol generating procedures. Protection of health care workers is crucial in times of COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We simulated aerosol and droplet spread during upper airway and gastrointestinal endoscopy with and without physico-mechanical barriers using a simulation model. Results: A clear plastic drape as used for central venous access markedly reduced visualized aerosol and droplet spread during endoscopy. Conclusion: A simple and cheap drape has the potential to reduce aerosol and droplet spread during endoscopy. In terms of health care worker protection, this may be important particularly in low- or moderate-income countries.