Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of endocrine surgery
Toni Beninato, Amanda M. Laird, Claire E. Graves, Frederick Thurston Drake, Amal Alhefdhi, James A. Lee, Jennifer H. Kuo, Elizabeth G. Grubbs, Tracy Wang, Janice L. Pasieka, Carrie C. Lubitz
Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on endocrine surgeons. METHODS: A survey on the professional, educational, and clinical impact was sent to active and corresponding members of the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons (AAES) in September 2020. Chi-square and paired t-test were used for analysis. RESULTS: 77 surgeons responded (14.8 %). All reported suspension of elective surgeries; 37.7 % were reassigned to other duties during this time. The median number of cases backlogged was 30 (IQR 15-50). Most surgeons reported decreased clinical volume (74.6 %). The use of virtual platforms for clinical and educational purposes increased from pre-COVID-19 levels (all p < 0.001). Use of in-office procedures (p < 0.001) and length of observation prior to discharge for thyroid surgery (p < 0.05) decreased. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic led to suspension of operations and decreased practice volume for endocrine surgeons. Surgeons increased use of virtual platforms, decreased in-office procedures, and decreased duration of observation for thyroid surgery in response.