Scheduling elective surgeries following COVID-19: Challenges ahead

Abstract

Evolving and conflicting information about pathophysiology, clinical course and impact of corona virus disease (COVID-19) on perioperative outcome of patients has brought in new challenges while restarting elective surgeries. A roadmap to resume elective surgeries should detail timings for reopening elective surgeries, COVID-19 testing facilities, adequate PPE supplies, conservation policies for PPE and case prioritization and scheduling. We suggest a six-pronged strategy of minimizing chances of exposure, adherence to standard protocols, perioperative patient care, precautions while performing aerosol generating procedures, limiting movement of personnel within operating room and monitoring and managing health care professionals while scheduling elective surgeries to overcome the challenges this COVID-19 pandemic has brought in.