Sensible awareness for otolaryngologist in managing aerodigestive foreign bodies in time of COVID-19

Abstract

Background: In the time of COVID-19, the world came to a cease, however medical emergencies are ceaseless. Aerodigestive tract foreign bodies are one of the frequent emergencies in otolaryngology. Within the era of COVID-19, otolaryngologists have been documented to be at high risk of infection. Due to high viral load in the respiratory epithelium, the examination and extraction of foreign bodies in the aerodigestive tract places the otolaryngologist at high risk. Objective: The objective was to highlight the appropriate way of handling aerodigestive foreign bodies in the time of COVID-19 pandemic to insure safety of all involved medical staff. Methods: This was a systematic review of related international published guidelines. Results: A simplified flowchart is suggested to help guide the triaging of emergency patients with aerodigestive foreign body in the COVID-19-affected area. Conclusion: COVID-19 is a highly contagious infection that places health-care workers, especially the workers dealing with the aerodigestive tract at high risk. An appropriate management of these cases is essential to protect the health-care workers.