Reconstructive Microsurgery in the COVID-19 Environment

• Published in: Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open Vol. 9; no. 6; p. e3691
• Main Authors: Shachar, Tal, Yaacobi, Dafna (Shilo), Cohen, Keren, Olshinka, Asaf, Ad-El, Dean D.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hagerstown, MD Lippincott Williams & Wilkins 29.06.2021; Wolters Kluwer
• Subjects: Reconstructive; Special Topic
• ISSN: 2169-7574; 2169-7574
• DOI: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000003691

Summary The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges to the plastic surgery field. Substantial changes have been incorporated in hospital and practice protocols in all branches of medicine. Organic medical teams were placed on scheduled shifts to prevent cross-infection, and some working teams were discontinued. Remote technology consultations and deliberations were instituted in hospitals and community medical services to maintain the flow of information on patient status. Several mitigation strategies were implemented during these times throughout medical facilities. We present those implemented in our facility to ensure adequate labor, resources, and facilities along with proper protocols for patient selection and management according to predetermined risk assessment criteria with the hope to assist the healthcare staff to minimize mortality risks.