998 Utilisation of A “COVID-Free” Hospital in The Independent Sector - Endourology Service Provision and Outcomes During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

IntroductionCOVID-19 may negatively affect peri-operative outcomes, requiring strategies to allow operating whilst minimising risk. We present our endourology service provision throughout the “lockdown” period.MethodEndourological operations 23rd March to 11th May 2020 were designated to the base hospital or independent “green” site by urgency and comorbidity status. Base hospital emergencies underwent surgery in main theatres, whilst elective patients had dedicated “COVID-free” theatres and wards.A portable Holmium laser enabled lasertripsy at the independent site.After 27th April, elective cases required a negative swab and 2-week self-isolation pre-operatively.Results70 operations were performed: 42 ureteroscopies, 20 stent procedures, 8 PCNLs. Mean age was 57 and 58 at base and independent sites respectively, mean ASA 2.1 and 1.9.37 operations (53%) occurred at the base hospital, including 14 emergencies (38%). 19 patients received post-operative COVID-19 swabs: 3 positives (8%), all emergencies. 2 patients (5%) died of COVID-19 pneumonia within 35 days; both had negative pre-operative swabs.Of 33 patients at the independent site, 3 (9%) received post-operative swabs, all negative. None had COVID-19 symptoms post-operatively.Conclusions“COVID-free” hospitals, wards and theatres enable elective operating whilst minimising peri-operative virus risk. Further utilisation of independent hospitals would more safely allow operating throughout the pandemic.