The Orthopaedic Trauma Service and COVID-19: Practice Considerations to Optimize Outcomes and Limit Exposure

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic surgery
• Trauma care
• Public health emergencies

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted healthcare systems, leading to the cancellation and phased restart of elective orthopaedic procedures.
• Orthopaedic trauma care is essential for acute musculoskeletal injuries that require immediate intervention, irrespective of the pandemic status.

Observation:

• Healthcare providers faced challenges in balancing patient care with infection control measures.
• The orthopaedic trauma community adapted by developing strategies to manage acute injuries safely.

Findings:

• This article provides guidance for orthopaedic traumatologists on managing orthopaedic trauma services, outpatient fracture clinics, and inpatient surgeries.
• Key strategies focus on maximizing patient outcomes and minimizing exposure risks during the pandemic.

Implications:

• Implementing these recommendations can help maintain essential trauma care services during public health crises.
• This approach ensures the continued treatment of critical musculoskeletal injuries while safeguarding healthcare professionals and patients.