American journal of otolaryngology
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The pandemic of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a vast disaster throughout the world. There is increasing evidence that olfactory dysfunction can present in COVID-19 patients. Anosmia can occur alone or can be accompanied by other symptoms of COVID-19, such as a dry cough. ⋯ Anosmia and dysgeusia are often comorbid in COVID-19 patients. Otolaryngologists should be mindful of the symptom of anosmia in outpatients so as not to delay the diagnosis of COVID-19. In this paper, we have reviewed the relevant knowledge based on up-to-date literature.
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There is limited data regarding the demographics and clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children. This information is especially important as pneumonia is the single leading cause of death in children worldwide. This Systematic Review aims to elucidate a better understanding of the global impact of COVID-19 on the pediatric population. ⋯ 4 (Systematic Review).
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COVID-19 has become a pandemic with significant consequences worldwide. About 3.2% of patients with COVID-19 will require intubation and invasive ventilation. Moreover, there will be an increase in the number of critically ill patients, hospitalized and intubated due to unrelated acute pathology, who will present underlying asymptomatic or mild forms of COVID-19. Tracheostomy is one of the procedures associated with an increased production of aerosols and higher risk of transmission of the virus to the health personnel. The aim of this paper is to describe indications and recommended technique of tracheostomy in COVID-19 patients, emphasizing the safety of the patient but also the medical team involved. ⋯ A safe approach to performing percutaneous dilational bedside tracheostomy with bronchoscopic guidance is feasible in COVID-19 patients of appropriate security measures are taken and a strict protocol is followed. Instruction of all the health care personnel involves is key to ensure their safety and the patient's favorable recovery.
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The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19) pandemic has impacted nearly every aspect of otolaryngologic practice. The transition from office-based evaluation to telemedicine and the number of postponed elective surgical cases is unprecedented. ⋯ As practices begin to move towards resuming elective and same day ambulatory surgery, safety of both the patient and healthcare team is of paramount importance. Usage of total intravenous anesthesia (propofol and remifentanil) over volatile gas anesthesia (e.g., sevoflurane) may increase the number of patients able to safely receive care by reducing potential spread of the virus through reduction in coughing and significantly decreasing the time spent in the recovery room.