Perioperative planning for cardiovascular operations in the COVID-19 pandemic

Hayrettin Levent Mavioğlu1, Ertekin Utku Ünal1, Göktan Aşkın1

  • 1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.

Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates prioritizing cardiovascular surgeries. A new algorithm, Level of Priority, helps manage surgical deferrals and ensure patient safety during the global health crisis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health
  • Surgical Innovation

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic presents significant challenges to healthcare systems globally.
  • Increased transmission rates strain healthcare capacity, necessitating careful resource allocation.
  • Elective cardiovascular surgeries often require postponement to manage pandemic-related burdens.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop an algorithm for prioritizing cardiovascular surgeries based on urgency and deferrability.
  • To outline essential precautions for performing emergency cardiovascular surgeries safely.
  • To ensure patient safety and protect surgical teams during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Methods:

  • Development of the 'Level of Priority' algorithm for cardiovascular disease surgical management.
  • Identification of critical infection prevention measures for surgical settings.
  • Guidelines for intensive care unit (ICU) follow-up post-emergency cardiovascular surgery.

Main Results:

  • The 'Level of Priority' algorithm provides a framework for decision-making regarding surgical deferral.
  • Established protocols enhance safety for patients undergoing emergency cardiovascular procedures.
  • Implementation of stringent infection control measures protects healthcare professionals.

Conclusions:

  • A systematic approach is crucial for managing cardiovascular surgical backlogs during pandemics.
  • The developed algorithm aids in optimizing surgical scheduling and resource allocation.
  • Prioritizing patient and staff safety is paramount in high-transmission environments.

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