IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON ELECTIVE KNEE SURGERIES IN ATHLETES

Abstract

ABSTRACT With the COVID-19 pandemic, elective orthopedic surgeries were interrupted in most healthcare services. This leads to impacts on the quality of life, as well as on the emotional, professional, and financial situation of patient athletes who had their surgical treatment postponed. Objective: To evaluate clinical, emotional, and professional impacts on athletes who had their knee surgery postponed. Methods: This study included 21 patients who were diagnosed with knee injuries and were on a surgical waiting list. Participants answered a questionnaire with socioeconomic questions, activity level (amateur/professional), diagnosis, proposed surgery, and questions about anxiety regarding the postponement and uncertainty of performing the surgery, worsening symptoms, and psychological status in general. Results: The most prevalent diagnosis was anterior cruciate ligament injury (81%). Moreover, 42.9% of patients reported being highly anxious about the date of surgery, with 23.8% being highly anxious about the uncertainty of surgery. There was a direct positive correlation (r = 0.418), indicating a higher level of anxiety in patients who faced greater financial impact. Conclusion: The indefinite postponement of surgeries had a great impact on anxiety levels and surgery uncertainty of patients awaiting surgery. Level of Evidence III, Transversal Study.