[The first year of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic-impact on otorhinolaryngology]

[Assessment of Flexible Single-Use Rhinolaryngoscopes with Working Channel in the Upper Airways]

Flexible rhinolaryngoscopy is a frequently used ENT examination method. It is usually performed with reusable endoscopy systems. Since 2019, flexible single-use rhinolaryngoscopes from various manufacturers with and without a working channel are available on the German market. In recent years, hygiene requirements and specifications for reprocessing reusable endoscopes have increased significantly.This study uses questionnaires to evaluate user satisfaction with the Ambu disposable endoscopy system with working channel in a bicentre observational study.The overall impression of the disposable endoscopy system with working channel was rated as "very good" in half of the applications. Image quality and handling were predominantly rated as "good" to "very good". The simultaneously usage of instruments through the working channel is a challenge.Single-use rhinolaryngoscopy systems offer excellent handling, image quality and user satisfaction. There is a high level of security with regard to contamination risks and complication rates. Compliance with current hygiene guidelines can lead to increasing expenses in the reprocessing of reusable endoscopy systems and make disposable endoscopes more attractive in the future. In combination with an integrated working channel, single-use endoscopy systems can offer additional value compared to reusable systems regarding hygienic standards.

Status quo after one year of COVID-19 pandemic in otolaryngological hospital-based departments and private practices in Germany

PURPOSE

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected healthcare systems worldwide. Data on the impact on otolaryngological clinics and private practices is sparse. This study aimed to present data on healthcare worker (HCW) screening, status of HCW, pre-interventional testing, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the economic impact of the pandemic.

METHODS

Otolaryngological private practices and hospital-based departments were surveyed nationwide using an online questionnaire. Participating facilities were recruited via the German Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology and the German Association for Otolaryngologists in Bavaria.

RESULTS

365 private practices (2776 employees) and 65 hospitals (2333 employees) were included. Significantly more hospitals (68.7%) than practices (40.5%) performed pre-interventional testing in their outpatients (p < 0.00). Most inpatients were tested in practices and hospitals (100.0% and 95.0%; p = 0.08). HCW screening was performed in 73.7% of practices and in 77.3% of hospitals (p = 0.54). Significantly more HCW infections were reported in private practices (4.7%) than in hospital (3.6%; p = 0.03). The private or home environment was the most frequent source of infection among HCW in hospitals (44%) and practices (63%). The use of PPE increased over the course of the pandemic. The number of procedures and the revenue decreased in 2020.

CONCLUSION

The rate of pre-interventional testing among outpatients in otolaryngological practices is low and HCW infections were found to be more frequent in practices than in hospitals. In addition, a high rate of infections in otolaryngological HCW seems to stem from the private or home environment.

Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on ENT clinical practice and training: the resident's perspective

BACKGROUND

The arrival of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic disrupted life suddenly and forcefully, and healthcare systems around the world are still struggling to come to terms with it. This paper reviews the impact of the pandemic on ENT practice and training.

METHODS

The present manuscript was developed as a narrative review to examine the role of otorhinolaryngologists in the management of the pandemic, and assess its impact on practice and training in the specialty.

RESULTS

Otorhinolaryngologists handle secretions of organs implicated in disease transmission, leaving them particularly vulnerable even while performing simple procedures. Although the pandemic increased skill expectations, it simultaneously reduced learning opportunities for trainees. In addition, attention to emergencies has been delayed. Further, the suspension of elective procedures has affected patients with malignancies.

CONCLUSION

While planning service resumption, provisions need to be made for protective equipment and training; improving teleconsultation services will help provide sustainable care during further waves.