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Published on: January 13, 2017
Topical preparations to reduce SARS-CoV-2 aerosolization in head and neck mucosal surgery
Harman S Parhar1, Kendall Tasche1, Robert M Brody1
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Aim:
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has put health care workers at risk when exposed to aerosolized viral particles during upper airway mucosal surgery. The objective of this review was to discuss topical preparations that could be utilized preoperatively to help to decrease viral load and potentially reduce the risks of viral transmission.
Methods:
A PubMed/MEDLINE database review of articles was performed querying topical preparations with virucidal activity against coronaviruses.
Results:
Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) solutions ranging from 0.23% to 7% have been found to demonstrate highly effective virucidal activity against a broad range of viruses including several coronaviruses responsible for recent epidemics including SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV.
Conclusions:
While specific evidence regarding SARS-CoV-2 is lacking, PVP-I-based preparations have been successfully demonstrated to reduce viral loads of coronaviruses. They are relatively safe to use in the upper airway and may reduce risk of SARS-CoV-2 aerosolization during upper airway mucosal surgery.
Insights
Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) solutions show strong virucidal activity against coronaviruses. Preoperative application may reduce viral load and transmission risk for healthcare workers during upper airway surgery.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic poses risks to healthcare workers from aerosolized SARS-CoV-2 during procedures.
- Upper airway mucosal surgeries increase potential for viral exposure and transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review topical preparations with preoperative virucidal activity.
- To identify agents that can decrease viral load and reduce transmission risk.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of the PubMed/MEDLINE database was conducted.
- Searched for topical preparations with demonstrated virucidal activity against coronaviruses.
Main Results:
- Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) solutions (0.23%-7%) exhibit potent virucidal effects against various coronaviruses.
- PVP-I is effective against SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV.
Conclusions:
- PVP-I preparations can reduce coronavirus viral loads.
- While direct SARS-CoV-2 data is limited, PVP-I is a potential agent to mitigate transmission risk during upper airway surgery.
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