Awake Rhinology Surgery in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in Europe
This paper sets out recommendations for carrying out selected rhinology procedures under local anaesthetic during the COVID-19 recovery period. It focuses on service pressures, patient and clinician safety, and ways to support access to routine rhinology care when theatre capacity is limited.
Research snapshot
Authors: Peter Andrews; Lukas Anschuetz; Peter M. Baptista; Florian Bast; Achim G. Beule; John De Carpentier; Deirdre Fitzgerald; Luis Miguel Pinto Correia Furtado; Barton Knox; Andrea Marzetti; Nora W. Perkins; Prem Singh Randhawa
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication Date: 2022; Epub 31/08/2021
Publication Details: ORL Journal of Otorhinolaryngology and Related Specialties. 2022;84(2):93-102.
PMID: 34464957
PMCID: PMC8450852
DOI: 10.1159/000517155
Study Type: Review / recommendations
A link to the original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34464957/
What this paper looked at
How awake rhinology surgery under local anaesthetic could be used safely and appropriately during the COVID-19 recovery phase.
Key points from the publication
The paper discusses reduced theatre capacity and surgical backlogs, then provides consensus-style recommendations for local anaesthetic rhinology pathways. It emphasises adherence to local and national safety guidance.
Clinical relevance
Relevant to service planning, local anaesthetic rhinology pathways and patient safety discussions. Patient-facing use should avoid implying that local anaesthetic surgery is suitable for every case.
What this means in context
Supports Mr Bast's research profile in rhinology and evidence-based ENT service adaptation, particularly around nasal surgery pathways and safe care delivery.
About Mr Florian Bast
Mr Florian Bast is a London-based Consultant Rhinologist, ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon with specialist expertise in rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, septorhinoplasty and facial plastic surgery.
His work includes the assessment and treatment of patients with both functional and aesthetic concerns, including nasal obstruction, nasal shape concerns, revision nasal surgery, septal problems and wider ENT and facial plastic surgery needs.
Mr Bast’s approach focuses on careful assessment, clear communication and treatment planning that considers both appearance and function. He aims to help patients understand what may be appropriate for their individual anatomy, symptoms and goals, with an emphasis on natural-looking, functional results and informed decision-making.
Disclaimer
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