Resuming hip and knee arthroplasty after COVID-19: ethical implications for wellbeing, safety and the economy
Nanne P. Kort, Luigi Zagra, Enrique Gómez‐Barrena, Reha N. Tandoğan, Martin Thaler, James R. Berstock, Theofilos Karachalios
Abstract
Reinstating elective hip and knee arthroplasty services presents significant challenges. We need to be honest about the scale of the obstacles ahead and realise that the health challenges and economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic are potentially devastating.We must also prepare to make difficult ethical decisions about restarting elective hip and knee arthroplasty. These decisions should be based on the existing evidence-base, reliable data, the recommendations of experts, and regional circumstances.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)ArthroplastyPandemic2019-20 coronavirus outbreakHip arthroplastySevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)Physical therapySurgeryDiseasePathologyVirologyInfectious disease (medical specialty)OutbreakTotal Knee Arthroplasty OutcomesOrthopedic Infections and TreatmentsOrthopaedic implants and arthroplasty