The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on acute and elective peripheral nerve surgery

Nerve injuries and regeneration after peripheral nerve surgery are time-sensitive, therefore longer waiting times and delayed treatment could impact patient management and functional results. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on acute and elective peripheral nerve surgery during the strict first lockdown measures.

In this retrospective study 352 patients who underwent peripheral nerve surgery in a university-based setting in an academic center during the COVID-19 lockdown (March 2020 to March 2021) were included. The pre-COVID-19 period of March 2018 to March 2019 served as a baseline for peripheral nerve procedures at the same department. Patient demographics, type of peripheral nerve lesion, affected peripheral nerves, operative treatment, postoperative complications and length of hospital stay were assessed. Acute indications and elective peripheral nerve surgery were assessed in 2 separate groups to evaluate influences of COVID-19 restrictions during the first lock-down period.

A total of 198 patients underwent peripheral nerve surgery during the pre-COVID-19 period compared to 154 patients during the COVID-19 period. The most common forms of surgery were peripheral nerve decompression procedures, which were significantly reduced during the COVID-19 period. While an overall reduction of peripheral nerve procedures was found, the proportion of posttraumatic reconstruction and nerve tumor surgery increased during the COVID-19 period.

The measures taken during the COVID-19 period altered the number of elective peripheral nerve surgeries. While the overall number of patients treated was reduced, urgent cases were prioritized.