CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 · Endosc Int Open 2020; 08(06): E817-E821
DOI: 10.1055/a-1180-8527
Innovation forum

Endoprotector: Protective box for safe endoscopy use during COVID-19 outbreak

Sara Campos
Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Portugal
,
Cátia Carreira
Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Portugal
,
Pedro Pinto Marques
Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Portugal
,
Ana Vieira
Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Portugal
› Institutsangaben

Abstract

Background and study aim Outbreak of COVID-19 began in Wuhan in December 2019 and has rapidly spread from China to the rest of the world. Although it is primarily transmitted by contact and droplets, aerosol-generating procedures also seem to carry the possibility of airborne viral transmission. As such, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy can be considered a risky procedure, with several position statements recommending the adoption of safe practices in endoscopic procedures. This article aims to describe an additional tool to protect healthcare personnel during endoscopy.

Methods A covering box made of acrylic plastic, named Endoprotector, was designed to cover the patient’s head, while taking into consideration movements performed by patients and healthcare staff during an endoscopic procedure.

Results A cough simulation using fluorescent dye confirmed the potential benefit of the box during endoscopy, thus protecting healthcare staff from air droplets. The feasibility and practicality of the box was also tested with patients during endoscopy.

Conclusion The reusable Endoprotector is easily and affordably manufactured and may reduce air droplets and airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and other microorganisms during endoscopy.



Publikationsverlauf

Eingereicht: 12. Mai 2020

Angenommen: 18. Mai 2020

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
02. Juni 2020

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