Pediatric urology in the era of COVID-19

Abstract

Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has mandated the pediatric urologists to adapt to the changing dynamics and adopt the strategy to minimise the collateral damage. The purpose of this study is to compile all the available literature and published guideline to facilitate the patient management. Materials and methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Google scholar database were systematically searched using the search terms “COVID-19” AND “pediatric” AND “urology”. All published papers retrieved from this search were considered for this review based on PRISMA guidelines. In addition to this, World Wide Web search was conducted for guidelines, and recommendations published by scientific societies and their websites were searched for the desired information. Results: Total eight articles and society recommendations met the inclusion criteria and included in the study. The general level of agreement was found on need to postpone the elective cases and ensuring the safety of hospital staff. The organ and life-threatening conditions like acute and symptomatic obstructive uropathy and testicular torsion should be treated on an emergent basis irrespective of COVID status. There is no evidence that any modality either open or laparoscopic has any advantage over the other. The protocols need to be modified based on stage of pandemic, availability of resources, and local guidelines. The restart of work once the pandemic is over should also be prioritised. Conclusion: There are very few articles and society guidelines on pediatric urology care in the COVID era, but all the available guidelines stress on prioritisation, protocol-based management, and improvisation as per the circumstances. Level of evidence: V.