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Updated: Dec 3, 2025

Nasal Brushing Sampling and Processing Using Digital High Speed Ciliary Videomicroscopy – Adaptation for the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published on: November 7, 2020
The microscope drape method to reduce aerosolisation during endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery in the COVID era.
Aikaterini Tsagkovits1, Dimitrios Ioannidis2, Ashok Rokade2
1ENT Department, Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Romsey Rd, Winchester, SO22 5DG, UK. tsagkovits@yahoo.gr.
Background:
Otolaryngologists are faced with concerning challenges since the onset of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic due to significant risk of occupational infection. Transmission can happen during intraoperative exposure to viral particles carried by droplets or aerosols. Endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery are notable for causing aerosolisation, putting healthcare staff at substantial risk.
Method:
We describe the creation of a tight-seal tent from a microscope drape covering the operative field and the operator's hands with the aim to contain aerosols during transnasal endoscopic surgery.
Conclusion:
The microscope drape technique is a simple barrier measure that could potentially improve safety during endoscopic procedures.
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