COVID-19: Safe Guidelines for Breast Imaging During the Pandemic.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Infectious Disease

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated adaptations in healthcare delivery, including breast imaging.
• Maintaining essential breast cancer screening and diagnostic services while ensuring patient and staff safety was a significant challenge.
• The risk of delaying diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer due to pandemic-related disruptions required careful consideration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide evidence-based guidelines for safe breast imaging practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To outline a prioritized approach to breast imaging based on cancer risk and treatment impact.
• To ensure the protection of patients, healthcare professionals, and minimize infection transmission.

Main Methods:

• Review of best practices for infection control in healthcare settings.
• Development of a guideline by the Canadian Society of Breast Imaging/Canadian Association of Radiologists.
• Prioritization of breast imaging services based on clinical urgency and potential for harm from delay.

Main Results:

• Implementation of stringent personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols.
• Adherence to physical distancing measures in clinical environments.
• Vigilant maintenance of safety practices to protect all individuals involved in breast imaging.

Conclusions:

• Safe breast imaging can be performed during the COVID-19 pandemic by adhering to established guidelines.
• Proactive measures are crucial to prevent the collateral damage of delayed breast cancer diagnosis.
• Balancing diagnostic needs with infection control is achievable through careful planning and execution.