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Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on ENT clinical practice and training: the resident's perspective

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 October 2021

D Kapoor
Affiliation:
Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, University College of Medical Sciences, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
A S Ramavat*
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, and Head and Neck Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
M Mehndiratta
Affiliation:
Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, India
A Agrawal
Affiliation:
Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, New Delhi, India
V Arora
Affiliation:
Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, University College of Medical Sciences, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
A Goel
Affiliation:
Department of Medicine, University College of Medical Sciences, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
*
Author for correspondence: Dr Anurag Snehi Ramavat, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, and Head and Neck Surgery, PGIMER, Chandigarh160012, India E-mail: ramavatanu@gmail.com

Abstract

Background

The arrival of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic disrupted life suddenly and forcefully, and healthcare systems around the world are still struggling to come to terms with it. This paper reviews the impact of the pandemic on ENT practice and training.

Methods

The present manuscript was developed as a narrative review to examine the role of otorhinolaryngologists in the management of the pandemic, and assess its impact on practice and training in the specialty.

Results

Otorhinolaryngologists handle secretions of organs implicated in disease transmission, leaving them particularly vulnerable even while performing simple procedures. Although the pandemic increased skill expectations, it simultaneously reduced learning opportunities for trainees. In addition, attention to emergencies has been delayed. Further, the suspension of elective procedures has affected patients with malignancies.

Conclusion

While planning service resumption, provisions need to be made for protective equipment and training; improving teleconsultation services will help provide sustainable care during further waves.

Type
Review Article
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s), 2021. Published by Cambridge University Press

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Footnotes

Dr A S Ramavat takes responsibility for the integrity of the content of the paper

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