Safety and Feasibility of Laparoscopic Surgeries during Covid-19 Pandemic- A Review (Preprint)

Abstract

During the Covid19 pandemic, the potential spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus during surgeries, especially in laparoscopic surgeries, is a key concern. Surgical smoke released during laparoscopic surgeries may cause viral transmission. Therefore, the risk and benefits of viral transmission during laparoscopic surgery needs to be carefully evaluated. For the safety of healthcare professionals are adapted from the previous pandemics/epidemics, the preventive measures especially applicable to laparoscopic surgeries include care during CO2 insufflation/desufflation, minimal use of energy sources, personal protection measures are recommended.

The aim of this article is to review the contemporary literature pertaining to the risk of conducting laparoscopic surgeries during the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition, we summarize the relevant safety protocols for the patients, surgical team, anesthetists, and the operation room staff.

A systematic literature search was performed using the key words: Covid-19 laparoscopy, Surgical smoke, Covid safety in operation rooms, Laparoscopic surgeries and Covid safety, prevention, Aerosol transmission, Laparoscopic surgery, Covid-19’ Search articles were considered from the aims of the articles, nature, safety protocols, and risk mentioned in the literature.

Although the initial guidelines advocated by various organizations stated that Laparoscopy generally should not be used as it is considered to carry some risks of aerosol-type formation and infection and considerable caution is advised. Though some reports have suggested the use of Laparoscopy in selected cases where clinical benefit to the patient substantially exceeds the risk of potential viral transmission to the surgical team.

Based on this review of the current scientific knowledge, no scientific evidence was found to support the use of open surgery over laparoscopy to reduce viral transmission of COVID-19 if the advocated Covid-19 guidelines are followed strictly; however, there is still much to discover about the viral transmission.