Current opinion in ophthalmology
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Curr Opin Ophthalmol · Sep 2020
ReviewThe use of personal protective equipment in clinical ophthalmology during corona virus disease-2019: a review of international guidelines and literature.
The use of nonpharmaceutical interventions can prevent viral spread in COVID-19 pandemic and PPE forms a crucial part of this strategy. However, there are discrepancies in existing guidelines and a lack of consensus among ophthalmic communities. This review aims to identify general consensus and provides recommendation of PPE for most common ophthalmological scenarios. With a global shortage of PPE, extended use and reuse strategies are also discussed. ⋯ On the basis of our methodology, we included a total of 30 documents, including 5 resources from tier 1, 14 resources from tier 2 and 15 from tier 3. Different levels of protection are necessary. Whenever performing an aerosol generating procedure, maximum protection should be ensured, this includes FFP3 respirator, fluid resistant gown, goggles or face-shield and disposable gloves. Similar protection should be used for handling COVID-19-positive/suspected case but the use of FFP2 respirator is acceptable. During routine outpatient clinic in cases of negative triage, it is recommended to use ASTM III surgical mask, plastic apron, disposable gloves and eye protection with goggles or face-shield. Lastly, patients should be encouraged to wear surgical masks whenever possible.
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Curr Opin Ophthalmol · Sep 2020
ReviewIncorporating a virtual curriculum into ophthalmology education in the coronavirus disease-2019 era.
The purpose of this review is to describe the transition of ophthalmology education to a virtual curriculum during the COVID-19 pandemic. We highlight innovative solutions ophthalmic educators implemented for medical students, residents, and fellows. ⋯ The COVID-19 pandemic transformed ophthalmology education overnight and accelerated the adoption of innovative e-virtual learning resources for trainees. These changes will undoubtedly remain part of the new paradigm of medical education in the post-COVID era.
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To summarize how big data and artificial intelligence technologies have evolved, their current state, and next steps to enable future generations of artificial intelligence for ophthalmology. ⋯ Future requirements for big data and artificial intelligence include fostering reproducible science, continuing open innovation, and supporting the clinical use of artificial intelligence by promoting standards for data labels, data sharing, artificial intelligence model architecture sharing, and accessible code and APIs.
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Curr Opin Ophthalmol · Sep 2020
Comparative StudyOcular trauma during COVID-19 stay-at-home orders: a comparative cohort study.
The aim of this study was to report characteristics of patients presenting with serious ocular injuries during the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders. ⋯ During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with ocular trauma were more likely to have injuries sustained at home and have additional barriers to care. These changes underscore a need for targeted interventions to optimize emergent eye care during a pandemic.
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Curr Opin Ophthalmol · Sep 2020
ReviewConsiderations in the use of slit lamp shields to reduce the risk of respiratory virus transmission in coronavirus disease 2019.
The use of slit lamp shields has been recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology as an infection control measure during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. However, there is limited evidence regarding its efficacy to reduce viral transmission risks. We aim to provide an evidence-based approach to optimize the use of slit lamp shields during clinical examination. ⋯ Slit lamp shields serve as a barrier for large droplets, but its protection against smaller droplets is undetermined. It should be large, positioned close to the patient, and used in tandem with routine basic disinfection practices.