Experience in Gynecologic Cancers During Corona Virus Disease-2019 Pandemic: A Study from Tertiary Cancer Center in India

Abstract

Background: Corona virus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic emergency is of particular concern to oncologists in view of an often immunocompromised status of cancer patients along with the urgent need of cancer-directed treatment. Since the situation is unprecedented, deferring the oncologic procedures remains a dilemma. The importance to organize cancer care during the COVID-19 pandemic has become crucial. The goal of this study is to share experience in the management and surveillance of patients with gynecologic cancers during the global crisis. Methodology: This is a single-arm prospective observational study from February 1, 2020 till May 31, 2020. The study was performed at a tertiary care oncology institute in North India. All patients attending gynecologic oncology outpatient department (OPD) and in-patient department, both new and follow-up, were included. There was no control group for this study. Results: The number of gynecology oncology cases seen in OPD were 792. Among them new cases were (n = 168). Total number of surgery performed were (n = 120). Total number of patients who underwent COVID-19 real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction testing were (n = 32). Five patients tested positive for COVID-19 during preoperative workup and the surgery deferred till a negative report. Postoperative course was uneventful. Conclusion: We share the best practices and measures taken at our institute for cancer treatment during the pandemic. With precautions, following standard guidelines, organizational support structure, and preparedness a similar good outcomes of surgery can be achieved balancing pandemic control with providing continued cancer care. Add (J GYNECOL SURG 37:222)