Abstract
<b><i>Background and Aims:</i></b> Aerosols and droplets are the main vectors in transmission of highly contagious SARS-CoV-2. Invasive diagnostic procedures like upper airway and gastrointestinal endoscopy have been declared as aerosol-generating procedures. Protection of healthcare workers is crucial in times of the COVID-19 pandemic. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> We simulated aerosol and droplet spread during upper airway and gastrointestinal endoscopy with and without physico-mechanical barriers using a simulation model. <b><i>Results:</i></b> A clear plastic drape as used for central venous access markedly reduced visualized aerosol and droplet spread during endoscopy. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> A simple and cheap drape has the potential to reduce aerosol and droplet spread during endoscopy. In terms of healthcare worker protection, this may be important particularly in low- or moderate-income countries.
Subject
Gastroenterology,General Medicine
Cited by
2 articles.
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