COVID-19 pandemic and our endoscopy experiences

INTRODUCTION: It is known that endoscopic procedures are reduced all over the world in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The results of clinics operating without interrupting elective endoscopic procedures during the pandemic process are unknown. We aimed to explain the endoscopy procedures, precautions, experiences, and how safe endoscopy service is provided by our clinic, which continues its endoscopy service during the pandemic without patient selection and number restrictions.
METHODS: This is a retrospective, cross-sectional and descriptive study. Between March 2020 and March 2021, the patients who underwent endoscopic procedures have included in the study. Medical files of 5986 patients were accessed from the hospital database and evaluated. COVID-19 transmission status of healthcare professionals working in endoscopy was analyzed.
RESULTS: About 3722 of patients were men (62.2%), 2264 of patients were women (37.8%). The mean age of the patients was 53±12 (17–85). Gastroscopy was performed in 3824 (63.8%) patients, and colonoscopy was performed in 1606 (30%) patients. Rectoscopy and sigmoidoscopy 205 (2.68%), colonoscopic polypectomy 190 (3.17%), gastroscopic polypectomy 77 (1.28%), foreign body removal by emergency gastroscopy 31 (0.51%), endoscopic percutaneous gastrostomy 29 (0.48%), emergency gastroscopy for upper gastrointestinal bleeding 19 (0.31%) and 5 (0.08%) emergency colonoscopy for volvulus detorsion was performed. Only 2 (8.3%) of healthcare workers had Covid 19 transmission during the pandemic process.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Endoscopic procedures can be performed safely under pandemic conditions, with arrangements in the endoscopy unit, complete procurement of Personal protective equipment, training of healthcare professionals, and pre-procedure polymerase chain reaction.