Managing vitreoretinal surgeries during COVID-19 lockdown in India: Experiences and future implications

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated significant changes in healthcare delivery, including elective and urgent surgical procedures.
• Understanding the profile of patients requiring vitreoretinal surgery during lockdown is crucial for resource allocation and safety protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical and demographic characteristics of patients undergoing vitreoretinal surgery during the COVID-19 lockdown in India.
• To report on the operating protocols and initial experience with vitreoretinal surgeries amidst the pandemic at a tertiary eye care center.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective, cross-sectional observational study was conducted on patients needing emergent/urgent vitreoretinal surgeries.
• Protocols included strict COVID-19 precautions, operating theater sterilization, and a dedicated infection control committee.
• Demographic and clinical data were collected and analyzed, alongside healthcare worker surveillance data.

Main Results:

• Eighty-three patients underwent vitreoretinal surgery during the lockdown period (March 25 - May 31, 2020).
• The mean age was 38.4 years, with a majority being male (66%) and adults (82.6%).
• Common indications included retinal detachment (38.5%) and diabetic vitrectomies (22.9%); trauma was less frequent (14.4%).

Conclusions:

• Retinal detachment and diabetic complications were the primary reasons for vitreoretinal surgery during the COVID-19 lockdown.
• Effective infection control protocols are vital for safe patient care and healthcare worker protection during pandemics.