An online survey of the changing trends of the cardiac surgeries in the era of COVID-19

Abstract

Objectives: To collect and assess cardiac surgeons' viewpoint about the changing cardiac surgery practices in India during COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: An online web-based study was conducted through an online questionnaire which was mailed to various cardiac surgeons in India (as retrieved from the cardiac surgeon directory). The responses were received and entered in an MS Excel spreadsheet and were analyzed. The ethical clearance for the study was not required as it was an online survey-based study without any patient data or treatment modification. Results: Out of 52 surgeons to whom the questionnaire was sent, 34 responded. Large number of surgeons (47.1%) pointed that reduction in cardiac surgical volume for long time during pandemics is associated with surgical expertise attrition. Importantly, in addition to 44.1% response rate for substantial reduction of patient management in cardiac surgery during pandemic, 38.2% of surgeons responded for its complete discontinuation. Another 44.1% of surgeons responded that the risk of exposure in a COVID-19-negative subject during perioperative period is increased and affects outcomes. Multiple responses were obtained regarding repetition of COVID-19 testing in postoperative period. Conclusion: This pandemic is not going to end in the immediate future. However, to put cardiac surgery in standby mode till pandemic last is not an option. Measures should be taken by hospital and regulatory bodies to resume services of cardiac surgery in addition to containing ad preventing infection by COVID-19. In the absence of evidence-based recommendation, strong consensus opinion of practicing cardiac surgeon will guide clinical decision-making.