Impact of COVID-19 on Laparoscopic Surgery: A Short Survey of the Surgeons Working at the Frontline in this Pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: COVID-19 poses serious risk to surgeons performing laparoscopic surgery. This risk can be exponential however scientific evidence to quantify this risk is lacking. Surgical community is divided in their opinion with regards to role of laparoscopy in COVID-19.
Methods: We performed literature search to identify studies, guidance from major institutions to provide cumulative evidence
and to formulate formal opinion on role of laparoscopy in COVID-19. We also performed short survey to assess the opinion
of surgeons in this regards.
Results: Literature search revealed guidelines from major surgical institutions, which were included in the study. Three papers
published in the last few days did not report any patient’s data. Our survey revealed surgical community is divided in their opinion with regards to role of laparoscopy in surgery and stressed the need for more robust evidence.
Conclusion: Surgeons are divided in their opinion as to whether or not to perform laparoscopic procedures during COVID-19
pandemic. Although guidelines have to be followed currently, there is more than urgent need for robust evidence.