There is no routine head and neck exam during the COVID-19 pandemic

Head Neck. 2020 Jun;42(6):1235-1239. doi: 10.1002/hed.26168. Epub 2020 Apr 21.

Abstract

Head and neck examinations are commonly performed by all physicians. In the era of the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which has a high viral load in the upper airways, these examinations and procedures of the upper aerodigestive tract must be approached with caution. Based on experience and evidence from SARS-CoV-1 and early experience with SARS-CoV-2, we provide our perspective and guidance on mitigating transmission risk during head and neck examination, upper airway endoscopy, and head and neck mucosal surgery including tracheostomy.

Keywords: COVID-19; head and neck examination; pandemic; practical guide.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19
  • Coronavirus Infections / epidemiology
  • Coronavirus Infections / prevention & control*
  • Cross Infection / prevention & control*
  • Diagnostic Tests, Routine / standards*
  • Disease Transmission, Infectious / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Global Health
  • Head / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neck / physiopathology
  • Occupational Health
  • Pandemics / prevention & control*
  • Pandemics / statistics & numerical data
  • Patient Safety
  • Physical Examination / standards
  • Pneumonia, Viral / epidemiology
  • Pneumonia, Viral / prevention & control*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*