666 Innovations in ENT Surgery During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Aziz, M; Benamer, M; Hany, S; Sahib, Y

INTRODUCTION: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2), is responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID – 19) global pandemic. Similar coronavirus epidemics over the past years affected healthcare workers significantly. Aerosol generating procedures (AGPs) presented a unique risk to ear, nose and throat (ENT) Surgeons. We introduce various methods of reducing risk in ENT AGPs. RECOMMENDATIONS: During trachesostomies we advocate the adoption of a specialist checklist based on ENT UK guidelines. We also advise the use of a clear drape to create a clear barrier between the patient and staff. For ear surgery we advise suturing 2 microscope pieces together end-to-end so that a clear drape can sperate the patient from surgeon. During nasal and sinus surgery, we advise attaching a clear drape to the sterile camera drape used in rigid nasal endoscopy to create a barrier between patient and surgeon. DISCUSSION: Our recommendations will create an extra barrier between the patient and the rest of healthcare team. This should reduce the risks to theatre staff from AGPs. CONCLUSIONS: COVID 19 is a serious health issue affecting healthcare workers, especially during AGPs in ENT surgery. We recommend several techniques to reduce risk. These can also be used during future epidemics.