[Effects of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on surgery - a national cross-sectional study]

From the beginning of the SARS-CoV‑2 pandemic the German healthcare system focused on the treatment of COVID-19 patients. This was accompanied by the suspension of all elective operations. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the SARS-CoV‑2 pandemic on general and visceral surgery in university hospitals in Germany.

This cross-sectional study was based on an anonymous survey, which was accessible online from 3 April 2020 to 17 April 2020 for the surgical departments of university hospitals in Germany. In total 73% (n = 29/40) of the hospitals participated in the survey.

Cooperation with the authorities and the hospital administration was generally considered adequate; however, only 3% (1/29) and 7% (2/29) fully agreed with the statement that the health authorities at the federal and state level, respectively, were supportive of general and visceral surgery. The hospital directors expect an average loss of revenues of 28 ± 16%. There was an average reduction in beds or operating room capacity of 38% and 45%, respectively. In addition, 11% of the medical personnel in general and visceral surgery were reallocated to other departments.

The SARS-CoV‑2 pandemic has a significant impact on academic general and visceral surgery in Germany. The reduction in beds and operating room capacity can lead to considerable delays in urgent surgical interventions and financial burdens in 2020 and subsequent years.