Pulmonary Procedures in the COVID-19 Era

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system, causing severe lower respiratory tract infections.
• Initial guidelines, influenced by the SARS epidemic, recommended limiting pulmonary procedure volumes to protect healthcare workers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on pulmonary procedures.
• To discuss updated guidelines, restrictions, techniques, and patient care impacts.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and expert statements on pulmonary procedures during the pandemic.
• Analysis of evolving safety data and procedural guidelines.

Main Results:

• Early pandemic measures led to significant reductions in procedure volumes.
• Emerging evidence indicates that airway and pleural procedures can be performed safely with appropriate precautions and techniques.
• Vaccine availability and improved testing have facilitated the resumption of elective pulmonary procedures.

Conclusions:

• A flexible and individualized approach to pulmonary procedures is essential during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
• Continued evolution of understanding regarding SARS-CoV-2 necessitates adaptive management strategies for pulmonary interventions.