Impact of COVID 19 on orthopedic surgeons in India during the early phase of lockdown in South India: A survey-based report

Abstract

Background/Purpose: The pandemic of COVID 19 has swept across the livelihood and economy throughout the world. We created an online survey during the 2nd week of the first phase of national lockdown and assessed the impact of COVID 19 pandemic on orthopedic surgeons in South India, who are almost forgotten in this fight. Methods: The simple survey which included questions divided into categories – demographic details, awareness of the situation, clinical practice, effects on research, training, and personal aspects. The survey was shared on social media and responses were recorded online using Google forms and analyzed. Results: A total of 132 surgeons from various states of India, mostly from South India answered the survey in 7 days. More than 50% responded that their institution had no specific guidelines nor had adequate personal protective equipment (PPEs). Sixty-percent of the surgeons used only standard precautions and not PPE for emergency surgeries. Sixty-seven percent used telecommunication for regular follow-ups and most preferred WhatsApp messenger over SMS or calls. Over 50% were not confident to handle medical emergencies. 53.6% felt postgraduate training was significantly affected due to the lockdown and 58.8% were most stressed about their personal and family health. Seventy-five percent surgeons used this leisure period to spend time with their family. Conclusion: The pandemic of COVID 19 has significantly affected different domains of work and personal life of orthopedic surgeons in India. The survey helped to identify the deficiency and necessary changes which were implemented further. The situation would lead to long lasting changes in clinical practice and view of surgeons in the field of medicine and personal life in general.