Conclusions
The world is experiencing an unprecedented challenge during the
COVID-19 pandemic. Lessons learned include the need to “flatten the
curve” and prevent spread in the community; increased risks of
transmission to otolaryngologists, oral maxillofacial surgeons,
dentists, and anesthesiologists; and tactics to limit the risk of
spread. Rigorous adherence to infection control measures and attention
to rapidly changing policies and procedures is essential to mitigate the
spread of this disease. New challenges are emerging, including the
ability provide care for patients with an urgent need for time-sensitive
care, such as head and neck cancer patients, when our healthcare systems
are at running capacity and/or overwhelmed.
This review summarizes some of the more readily available clinical
protocols for head and neck specialists caring for patients in an
environment of a SARS CoV-2 mediated COVID-19 pandemic. Recommendations
are based largely on relatively small series, often from single centers,
and national position statements. Some represent expert opinion and
application from experiences with other diseases. Resources and policies
may vary not only between countries, but also between hospitals.
The medical community is accruing information rapidly and standards are
likely to change quickly with additional results. We must learn from one
another as the disease crosses the globe so as to integrate the lessons
into practice before too many patients and their caregivers succumb in
the pandemic. Only time will reveal which approaches are most robust and
generally applicable. Head and neck specialists should not allow their
commitment to patient care override self-preservation—healthcare
personnel form the most valuable resource in every country during the
pandemic. There is a need for system and hospital-based decision-making
to support healthcare teams, which are composed of dedicated but
vulnerable individuals.