Journal of laparoendoscopic & advanced surgical techniques. Part A
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J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A · Jan 2021
ReviewOperating Room Setup: How to Improve Health Care Professionals Safety During Pandemic COVID-19-A Quality Improvement Study.
Background: COVID-19 is a terrific pandemic and a potential risk for every health care professional (HCP), especially during emergency conditions where the right timing is essential for the correct treatment. During surgery the correct setting of operative room (OR) is mandatory to reduce the risk of contamination. Personal protection equipment (PPE), specific devices, and planned OR setting are essential during surgery in pandemic COVID-19. Methods: Medline, PubMed, Scientific societies recommendations, and guidelines were consulted to identify articles reporting the setup of OR during pandemic COVID-19. Results: OR must have a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter with negative pressure and a high air exchange cycle rate. ⋯ During laparoscopy low pneumoperitoneum pressures and aspiration systems must be provided. Conclusions: Emergency surgery during pandemic COVID-19 increases the risk for every HCP in the OR. A theoretical risk of transmission from the surgical field exists. It is mandatory the adoption of strong strategies to reduce the risk of contamination in the OR.