Table 3.

Summary of COVID-19 Pandemic Measures

Academic activities

All in-person conferences should be cancelled

All conferences can occur via video teleconferences

Outpatient department

Appointments switched to telemedicine

Actual visits reserved for selected patients, such as wound control

Use absorbable sutures

Use level 1 PPE in non-COVID-19 facilities

Single companion for pediatric or nonambulatory patients

Lone visits for ambulatory individuals

Social distancing measures during appointments

Operation theater staff prevention

COVID-19 screening for all patients (nasopharyngeal swab, and thorax computed tomography scan)

COVID-19–negative operations: level 2 PPE

COVID-19–positive or emergency operations: level 3 PPE

Routine training about wearing and removing PPE

General considerations for COVID-19–positive operation

Clear the route during transfers

Separate negative pressure operating room with independent access

Separate mechanical ventilator

Endotracheal intubation with video-laryngoscope

Level 3 PPE is obligatory for all operating room staff

Powered air-purifying respirators for the surgical team

Minimum operating room staff number

Procedures performed by experienced neurosurgeons

Surgical considerations for COVID-19–positive operation

Reduced use of high-speed drills

More meticulous irrigation and reduction of drill speed

Increased use of traditional hand drills and rongeurs

Avoid breaching frontal or ethmoidal sinuses

Reduced use of electrocautery with reduced power setting

PPE, Personal protective equipment.