COVID-19 and the Global Impact on Colorectal Practice and Surgery

Abstract

We have presented the results of a survey used to assess the global impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the delivery of colorectal surgery. Despite accessible guidance information, our results have demonstrated that COVID-19 has significantly affected the ability of colorectal surgeons to offer care to patients. We have also discussed practical adaptation strategies for use during the recovery phase. Background: The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus that emerged in December 2019 causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to the sudden national reorganization of health care systems and changes in the delivery of health care globally. The purpose of our study was to use a survey to assess the global effects of COVID-19 on colorectal practice and surgery. Materials and Methods: A panel of International Society of University Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ISUCRS) selected 22 questions, which were included in the questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed electronically to ISUCRS fellows and other surgeons included in the ISUCRS database and was advertised on social media sites. The questionnaire remained open from April 16 to 28, 2020. Results: A total of 287 surgeons completed the survey. Of the 287 respondents, 90% were colorectal specialists or general surgeons with an interest in colorectal disease. COVID-19 had affected the practice of 96% of the surgeons, and 52% were now using telemedicine. Also, 66% reported that elective colorectal cancer surgery could proceed but with perioperative precautions. Of the 287 respondents, 19.5% reported that the use of personal protective equipment was the most important perioperative precaution. However, personal protective equipment was only provided by 9.1% of hospitals. In addition, 64% of surgeons were offering minimally invasive surgery. However, 44% reported that enough information was not available regarding the safety of the loss of intra-abdominal carbon dioxide gas during the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, 61% of the surgeons were prepared to defer elective colorectal cancer surgery, with 29% willing to defer for 8 weeks. Conclusion: The results from our survey have demonstrated that, globally, COVID-19 has affected the ability of colorectal surgeons to offer care to their patients. We have also discussed suggestions for various practical adaptation strategies for use during the recovery period.

The number of obstructive colorectal cancers in Japan has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic: A retrospective single-center cohort study

“…Nunoo-Mensah et al conducted a survey concerning the global effects of COVID-19 on colorectal practice and surgery, and they reported that COVID-19 has affected the ability of colorectal surgeons to offer care to their patients. They demonstrated that 61% of the surgeons were prepared to defer the elective surgeries for CRCs, with 29% willing to defer for ≤8 weeks [ 18 ].…”

DElayed COloRectal cancer care during COVID-19 Pandemic (DECOR-19): Global perspective from an international survey

“…4 , 5 The impact of COVID-19 on global oncological care has been profound. 6 , 7 , 8 COVIDSurg Collaborative estimated that 28,404,603 elective operations were cancelled or postponed worldwide during the 12 weeks of peak disruption, with 38% being for cancer. 4 Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer related deaths globally.…”

The Risk and Prevalence of COVID-19 Infection in Colorectal Cancer Patients: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

“…Thus, there may be a longer holdback for rescheduling once the moratorium is lifted [16]. Currently there are several suggestions for various practical adaptation strategies for use during infection and recovery period [17]. Cancer patients receiving anticancer regimen have been generally believed at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection than those patients who are not receiving anticancer treatment [18].…”