[Preliminary Recommendations for Lung Surgery during 2019 Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Epidemic Period]

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The emergence of COVID-19 in December 2019 significantly impacted global healthcare systems.
• Diagnosis and treatment of lung occupying lesions were complicated by the pandemic.
• Thoracic surgeons faced challenges in managing patient care during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide preliminary suggestions for the diagnosis and treatment of lung occupying lesions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To guide thoracic surgeons in China on managing surgical interventions amidst the epidemic.
• To encourage collaboration and continuous updating of recommendations based on evolving epidemic situations.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical experience and knowledge regarding COVID-19 and lung lesions.
• Development of preliminary procedural suggestions for diagnosis and treatment.
• Emphasis on adapting surgical intervention timing.

Main Results:

• The pandemic necessitated careful consideration of surgical intervention timing for thoracic cases.
• Standard diagnostic and treatment pathways were interrupted.
• A need for collaborative development of updated guidelines was identified.

Conclusions:

• Thoracic surgeons require specific protocols for managing lung lesions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Continuous updates to recommendations are crucial as understanding of COVID-19 evolves.
• Collaborative efforts among Chinese thoracic surgeons are essential to navigate this public health challenge.