Orthopaedic surgeons' perceptions and attitudes on COVID-19 related changes in practice: an international cross-sectional survey

Pan Afr Med J. 2021 Jan 28:38:96. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2021.38.96.26846. eCollection 2021.

Abstract

Introduction: the purpose of this study was to assess the orthopaedic surgeons' perceptions and attitudes on COVID-19 related changes in their practice.

Methods: an online survey was shared with orthopaedic surgeons practicing in different countries.

Results: this study showed that orthopaedic surgery plan management was adapted to respond more effectively to the COVID-19 pandemic while maintaining the continuity of health care and ensuring protection of medical staff and patients. Among the introduced measures, elective surgery was postponed to free-up beds for suspected or COVID-19 positive patients requiring hospitalization. Additionally, the number of outpatient visits was considerably decreased and non-urgent visits were postponed to reduce the flow of patients in and out of hospitals and therefore minimize the risk of contamination. Interestingly, data revealed the willingness of orthopaedic surgeons to take care of COVID-19 positive patients and support their colleagues in intensive care units, if needed.

Conclusion: orthopaedic surgery departments have adapted their programs to face the unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Quick measures were taken to reduce the risk of contamination in patients, medical staff and to allow hospitals to free up beds for treatment of patients with positive or suspected COVID-19.

Keywords: COVID-19; elective surgery; orthopaedic surgery.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • COVID-19*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Elective Surgical Procedures / statistics & numerical data
  • Hospitalization / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Orthopedic Procedures / statistics & numerical data*
  • Orthopedic Surgeons / organization & administration
  • Orthopedic Surgeons / statistics & numerical data*
  • Orthopedics / organization & administration
  • Orthopedics / statistics & numerical data*
  • Perception
  • Surveys and Questionnaires