ENT care in the context of the new coronavirus infection COVID-19

Abstract

The spread of the pandemic of the new coronavirus infection COVID-19 inevitably makes adjustments to the medical care. Given that the main route of transmission is airborne, otorhinolaryngologists are at increased risk of infection. Based on the literature data of leading otorhinolaryngologists, as well as their own experience working with patients with the new coronavirus infection COVID-19, the authors present relevant recommendations on the organization of specialized otorhinolaryngological care in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors consider the etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations of COVID-19. The features of the examination of ENT, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including the use of silicone hydrotamps to stop the front and rear nose bleeds, developed in L.I. Sverzhevskiy OHRIM, and indications for hospitalization in the ENT hospital. Features of operations on the otorhinolaryngological profile during a COVID pandemic are also described. Summing up, the authors indicate that during the pandemic of the new coronavirus infection COVID-19, otorhinolaryngologists need to adhere to two fundamental principles aimed at preventing the spread of infection: the use of modern effective personal protective equipment and the use of examination methods (surgical treatment methods) that prevent the formation of biological aerosols.