Abstract
Introduction The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is an international public
health emergency. Health systems must plan for the increasing requirements for critical
care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this article is to offer strategies
for hand surgeons to planning and implementing their response during the COVID-19
pandemic and in the subsequent phases to preserve health care system functioning.
Materials and Methods Assessment of the principles of management related to COVID-19 management to develop
pandemic preparedness and response protocols pertinent to patients, health care workers,
and health systems.
Results Strategies for the reorganizing hand surgery practice and a set of recommendations
that should facilitate the process of rescheduling both out-patient service and surgical
activities during the COVID-19 and its subsequent phases are suggested.
Conclusion During the COVID-19 pandemic, management of patients requiring specialist care for
hand conditions should be adapted to limit the risks associated with the virus without
jeopardizing outcomes. These expedient recommendations during extraordinary circumstances
are a foundation for further discussion on the topic as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves.
Keywords practice guideline - health planning guidelines - surgical procedures - hospital outpatient
clinics - coronavirus - severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 - COVID-19
- pandemics - hand - hand injuries
