Clinical Scorecard: The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Protocols on Future Surgical Practices: Insights from a Survey of Italian Surgeons

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Significant reduction in elective surgical activities during the pandemic with collateral delays in diagnosis and treatment.
• Rapid adoption of digital tools and alternative surgical strategies accelerated by COVID-19 protocols.
• Survey of 473 Italian surgeons revealed changes in pre-, peri-, and post-operative management and professional development.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Recognize delays in disease diagnosis due to pandemic-related service reductions.
• Implement strategies to mitigate postponed oncological pathways.

Management

• Adopt alternative operating strategies and digital tools to maintain surgical care during resource constraints.
• Ensure appropriate use of PPE and isolation measures during pandemic phases.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Monitor post-operative morbidity increases linked to delayed surgeries.
• Track surgical activity volumes to assess recovery post-pandemic.

Risks

• Increased post-operative morbidity due to delayed operations.
• Fear among surgeons and patients leading to reduced hospital access.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients requiring surgical interventions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic

Delays in surgical treatment and diagnosis increased morbidity; future protocols should balance infection control with timely surgical care.

Clinical Best Practices

• Maintain flexibility in surgical scheduling to accommodate pandemic-related disruptions.
• Leverage digital platforms for pre-operative and post-operative patient management.
• Promote continuous professional development adapting to evolving surgical protocols.
• Ensure clear communication to reduce fear and improve patient access to surgical services.

References

• American Association for Public Opinion Research reporting guidelines
• CHEcklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys (CHERRIES)
• ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05323851