COVID 19 is a serious pandemic that has affected and compromised healthcare, in particular, surgical problems. From limitation in personal protective equipment, PPE, to widespread differences of opinion regarding aggressive of spread, the surgeon and surgical team are exposed to this virus.
The objective of this case report and perspective article was to outline the safety protocols undertaken by the respective surgeons, the surgical PPE experience in the literature and our recommendations for the surgeon and surgical team.
Materials and Methods: We performed a review of the literature using PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, Johns Hopkins University Coronavirus Resource Center and the State of Texas, USA resources. We also used our own data at our tertiary care hospital and medical center to report operative PPE and outcomes.
Results: The data for PPE in the operative setting is limited in the literature. There are isolated case reports, and broad recommendations based on theory but very little practical data. Multiple regional and national organizations have set forth protocols and guidelines; however these are more to conserve equipment and hospital beds, anticipating surges of COVID 19 cases.
Discussion & Conclusion: While limited in literature available and our small sample size, we recommend aggressive protection. Our institution surgeons performed the emergent cases using N-95 masks and face shields on top of the usual surgical room attire, however we advocate positive pressure hoods and/or protective equipment. COVID 19 proves to be the silent enemy, and we cannot underscore enough the important of prevention and safety.