Journal of gastrointestinal surgery : official journal of the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract
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J. Gastrointest. Surg. · Jul 2020
ReviewWhat Is the Appropriate Use of Laparoscopy over Open Procedures in the Current COVID-19 Climate?
Among surgeons worldwide, a concern with the use of minimally invasive techniques has been raised due to a proposed risk of viral transmission of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) with the creation of pneumoperitoneum. Due to this proposed concern, we sought to collect the available data and evaluate the use of laparoscopy and the risk of COVID-19 transmission. ⋯ Despite very little evidence to support viral transmission through laparoscopic or open approaches, we recommend making modifications to surgical practice such as the use of smoke evacuation and minimizing energy device use among other measures to minimize operative staff exposure to aerosolized particles.
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J. Gastrointest. Surg. · Jul 2020
ReviewTelemedicine: Patient-Provider Clinical Engagement During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond.
The novel coronavirus pandemic has drastically affected healthcare organizations across the globe. ⋯ The post-pandemic role of telemedicine is dependent on permanent regulatory solutions. In the coming decade, telemedicine and telesurgery are anticipated to mature due to the proliferation of interconnected consumer health devices and high-speed 5G data connectivity.
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J. Gastrointest. Surg. · Jul 2020
ReviewCaring for Patients with Rectal Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The extraordinary spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has dramatically and rapidly changed the way in which we provide medical care for patients with all diagnoses. Conservation of resources, social distancing, and the risk of poor outcomes in COVID-19-positive cancer patients have forced practitioners and surgeons to completely rethink routine care. ⋯ It is therefore imperative to rethink how rectal cancer treatment can be aligned with the current COVID-19 pandemic paradigms. In this review, we discuss evidence-based recommendations to optimize oncological outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic.