Literature-guided recommendations for otolaryngologists during the COVID-19 pandemic: A contemporary review

Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol. 2020 Apr 20;5(3):432-437. doi: 10.1002/lio2.389. eCollection 2020 Jun.

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to review the current literature and guidelines on management of the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19 or 2019nCoV) with respect to the field of Otolaryngology.

Design: Contemporary literature review.

Methods: Systematic literature review of global medical literature databases and communications were queried to find all available literature recommendations, research, and guidelines applicable to otolaryngologists in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results: Guidance on personal protective equipment, office visits, and surgical scheduling, as well as recommendations for safe airway management and tracheotomy performance during the COVID-19 pandemic were compiled and interpreted.

Conclusions: Little guidance exists for otolaryngologists who are among the highest risk groups during the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic. This synthesis and compilation of global resources serve as a building block for further guidance during the epidemic.

Level of evidence: NA.

Keywords: 2019‐nCoV; COVID‐19; airway; otolaryngology.

Publication types

  • Review