Cardiothoracic robotic assisted surgery in times of COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Surgery
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare globally, leading to surgical procedure modifications.
• Elective surgeries are suspended, and safety protocols for operating on COVID-19 positive patients are under scrutiny.
• Existing recommendations for robotic assisted surgery do not specifically address cardiothoracic procedures in COVID-19 patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the potential risks, benefits, and necessary precautions for cardiothoracic robotic assisted surgery in COVID-19 positive patients.
• To address the lack of specific guidelines for this surgical subspecialty during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Review of current recommendations from robotic assisted surgery societies.
• Discussion of potential advantages and risks associated with robotic assisted surgery in the context of COVID-19.
• Identification of specific preventive measures for cardiothoracic robotic procedures.

Main Results:

• Robotic assisted surgery may provide benefits such as early recovery, reduced hospital stay, minimized blood loss, and smaller incisions.
• Potential risks include aerosolization of viral particles from electrosurgical/ultrasonic devices and CO2 insufflation.
• Careful management of surgical devices is crucial to mitigate viral transmission risks.

Conclusions:

• Robotic assisted surgery presents potential advantages for cardiothoracic operations in COVID-19 patients.
• Strict adherence to preventive measures is essential to ensure patient and staff safety.
• Further specific guidelines are needed for cardiothoracic robotic assisted surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic.