Current opinion in ophthalmology
-
Curr Opin Ophthalmol · Sep 2020
ReviewThe use of personal protective equipment in clinical ophthalmology during corona virus disease-2019: a review of international guidelines and literature.
The use of nonpharmaceutical interventions can prevent viral spread in COVID-19 pandemic and PPE forms a crucial part of this strategy. However, there are discrepancies in existing guidelines and a lack of consensus among ophthalmic communities. This review aims to identify general consensus and provides recommendation of PPE for most common ophthalmological scenarios. With a global shortage of PPE, extended use and reuse strategies are also discussed. ⋯ On the basis of our methodology, we included a total of 30 documents, including 5 resources from tier 1, 14 resources from tier 2 and 15 from tier 3. Different levels of protection are necessary. Whenever performing an aerosol generating procedure, maximum protection should be ensured, this includes FFP3 respirator, fluid resistant gown, goggles or face-shield and disposable gloves. Similar protection should be used for handling COVID-19-positive/suspected case but the use of FFP2 respirator is acceptable. During routine outpatient clinic in cases of negative triage, it is recommended to use ASTM III surgical mask, plastic apron, disposable gloves and eye protection with goggles or face-shield. Lastly, patients should be encouraged to wear surgical masks whenever possible.
-
Curr Opin Ophthalmol · Sep 2020
ReviewConsiderations in the use of slit lamp shields to reduce the risk of respiratory virus transmission in coronavirus disease 2019.
The use of slit lamp shields has been recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology as an infection control measure during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. However, there is limited evidence regarding its efficacy to reduce viral transmission risks. We aim to provide an evidence-based approach to optimize the use of slit lamp shields during clinical examination. ⋯ Slit lamp shields serve as a barrier for large droplets, but its protection against smaller droplets is undetermined. It should be large, positioned close to the patient, and used in tandem with routine basic disinfection practices.
-
Curr Opin Ophthalmol · Sep 2020
ReviewArtificial intelligence in ophthalmology during COVID-19 and in the post COVID-19 era.
To highlight artificial intelligence applications in ophthalmology during the COVID-19 pandemic that can be used to: describe ocular findings and changes correlated with COVID-19; extract information from scholarly articles on SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 specific to ophthalmology; and implement efficient patient triage and telemedicine care. ⋯ COVID-19 is significantly impacting the way we are delivering healthcare. Given the already successful implementation of artificial intelligence applications and telemedicine in ophthalmology, we expect that these systems will be embraced more as tools for research, education, and patient care.
-
Curr Opin Ophthalmol · Sep 2020
ReviewTeleophthalmology: an essential tool in the era of the novel coronavirus 2019.
The aim of this article is to assess the current state of teleophthalmology given the sudden surge in telemedicine demand in response to the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). ⋯ COVID-19 created a demand for healthcare delivery that limits in-person examination and potential viral exposure. Teleophthalmology allows ophthalmologists to continue caring for patients while keeping physicians and patients safe. Although challenges still exist, the pandemic has accelerated the adoption of teleophthalmology. As a result, teleophthalmology will play an integral role in providing high-quality efficient care in the near future.
-
Curr Opin Ophthalmol · Sep 2020
ReviewOphthalmic manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 and ocular side effects of investigational pharmacologic agents.
To compile and report the ocular manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and summarize the ocular side effects of investigational treatments of this disease. ⋯ Eye care professionals must exercise caution, as conjunctivitis may be the presenting or sole finding of an active COVID-19 infection. While no currently studied therapeutic agents have been found to reliably treat COVID-19, early vaccination trials are progressing and show promise. A video abstract is available for a more detailed summary. VIDEO ABSTRACT: http://links.lww.com/COOP/A36.