Inpatient Otolaryngology Consultations and COVID-19: The Surge and Lasting Effects at an Urban, Academic Institution

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems globally.
• Disruptions in routine medical services, including specialty consultations, were widely reported.
• Understanding the specific impact on otolaryngology inpatient services is crucial for resource planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on inpatient otolaryngology consultations.
• To analyze changes in consultation volume, reasons for consultation, and procedures performed.
• To compare data from pre-pandemic, pandemic surge, and post-surge periods.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of inpatient otolaryngology consultations at an urban academic tertiary care center.
• Data collected over two years (June 2019-June 2021), categorized into pre-COVID, Surge 1, Surge 2, and Post Surge periods.
• Statistical comparison of consultation volume, indications, and procedures across different timeframes.

Main Results:

• A total of 897 consultations were analyzed.
• Daily consultation volume decreased significantly during Surge 1 (0.86/day) compared to pre-COVID levels (1.67/day).
• Consultation volume, indications, and procedures returned to pre-COVID levels during Surge 2 and Post Surge periods, with fewer postoperative complaints noted in the Post Surge phase.

Conclusions:

• Inpatient otolaryngology consultation volumes at the studied institution were significantly affected during the initial COVID-19 surge.
• Consultation volume, indications, and performed procedures demonstrated a recovery to pre-COVID levels after the initial surge.
• The findings suggest resilience and adaptation of otolaryngology services in managing pandemic-related disruptions.