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.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 670-675 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | American Journal of Surgery |
Volume | 223 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 2022 |
Keywords
- COVID-19
- Compensation
- Endocrine surgery
- Survey
- Telemedicine
- Thyroid surgery
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Surgery