Recommendations From the CSO-HNS Taskforce on Performance of Tracheotomy During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Abstract
Introduction: The performance of tracheotomy is a common procedural request by critical care departments to the surgical services of general surgery, thoracic surgery and otolaryngology - head and neck surgery. A Canadian Society of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (CSO-HNS) task force was convened with multi-specialty involvement from otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, general surgery, critical care and anesthesiology to develop a set of recommendations for the performance of tracheotomies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Main body: The tracheotomy procedure is highly aerosol generating and directly exposes the entire surgical team to the viral aerosol plume and secretions, thereby increasing the risk of transmission to healthcare providers. As such, we believe extended endotracheal intubation should be the standard of care for the entire duration of ventilation in the vast majority of patients. Pre-operative COVID-19 testing is highly recommended for any nonemergent procedure. Conclusion: The set of recommendations in this document highlight the importance of avoiding tracheotomy procedures in patients who are COVID-19 positive if at all possible. Recommendations for appropriate PPE and environment are made for COVID-19 positive, negative and unknown patients requiring consideration of tracheotomy. The safety of healthcare professionals who care for ill patients and who keep critical infrastructure operating is paramount.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 27, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1105862
Entities
People
- D. Côté
- D. D. Sommer
- E. K. Weitzel
- I. J. Witterick
- J. Paul
- K. Fung
- K. M. Kost
- M. A. Tewfik
- M. Corsten
- Manish Gupta
- N. Sne
- P. T. Engels
- S. Khalili
- T. F. Brown
Organizations
- Brooke Army Medical Center