Characteristics of visits from otolaryngologicalpatients before and during three waves of theCOVID-19 pandemic: A retrospective study

Abstract

<br><b>Introduction:</b> COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on healthcare systems around the world. The rapid spread of the virus caused several restrictions, including limited access to outpatient clinics.</br> <br><b>Aim:</b> The aim of the study was to compare the characteristics and reasons for the visits of otolaryngological patients conducted during the first 3 waves of the COVID-19 pandemic with those of the prepandemic period.</br> <br><b>Materials and methods:</b> Volume, demographic data, type of visits, additional tests, types of referrals, and reasons for consultation were analyzed.</br> <br><b>Results:</b> There were 1578 visits performed before the pandemic and, respectively, 434, 1198 and 1299 during the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd waves. The patients in the 1^st and 2^nd waves were older than the patients before the pandemic (median age 59, 56, and 52 years, respectively, for both comparisons p <0.0001). Regarding the type of visit, the vast majority were in-person visits in all groups. The highest percentage of teleconsultations was in the 1st wave and was equal to 3.46%. Before the pandemic, patients were admitted mainly due to upper respiratory system diseases (52.15%), while during the 1st wave the main reasons were tumors (39.86%, malignant and benign tumors comprised 29.26% and 10.6%, respectively).</br> <br><b>Conclusions:</b> The COVID-19 pandemic, especially the 1st wave, changed the profile of ambulatory patients. In the 1st wave, a higher prevalence of tumor patients and a lower prevalence of patients with diseases of the upper respiratory system was observed. The COVID-19 pandemic caused an increase in number of teleconsultations, but its role was limited.</br>