Korean J Anesthesiol.  2020 Dec;73(6):557-561. 10.4097/kja.20182.

Perioperative considerations for COVID-19 patients: lessons learned from the pandemic -a case series-

• Yek JLJ
• Kiew SCA
• Ngu JCY
• Lim JGC

• KMID: 2510870
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4097/kja.20182

Abstract

Background
As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic spreads globally, hospitals are rushing to adapt their facilities, which were not designed to deal with infections adequately. Here, we present the management of a suspected COVID-19 patient. Case: A 66-year-old man with a recent travel history, infective symptoms, and chest X-ray was presented to our hospital. Considering his septic condition, we decided to perform an emergency surgery. The patient was given supplemental oxygen through a face mask and transported to an operating theatre on a plastic-covered trolley. An experienced anesthetist performed rapid sequence intubation using a video laryngoscope. Due to the initial presentation of respiratory distress, the patient remained intubated after surgery to avoid re-intubation. Precautions against droplet, contact, and airborne infection were instituted.
Conclusions
Our objective was to facilitate surgical management of patients with known or suspected COVID-19 while minimizing the risk of nosocomial transmission to healthcare workers and other patients.

Keyword

Communication; Coronavirus; COVID-19, Infection control; Pandemic; Perioperative care; Perioperative period; Personal Protective Equipment