Vanessa Yee Jueen Tan MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Glasgow), MMed (ORL) Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Singapore General HospitalEdward Zhiyong Zhang MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Glasgow), MMed (ORL), MCI, FAMS (ORL) Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Sengkang General HospitalDan Daniel PhD Institute of Materials Research and EngineeringAnton Sadovoy PhD Institute of Materials Research and EngineeringNeville Wei Yang Teo MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Glasglow), MMed (ORL) Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Singapore General HospitalKimberley Liqin Kiong MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (ORL), FAMS (ORL) Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Singapore General HospitalSong Tar Toh MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), MMed (ORL), MMed (Sleep Med), FAMS (ORL) Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Singapore General HospitalHeng Wai Yuen MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (ORL), DOHNS (England), GDFM Ear Nose Throat, Head and Neck Surgery Changi General HospitalCorresponding author: Vanessa Yee Jueen Tan [email protected]

Dear Editor,At 29th of February the World Health Organization (WHO) reported 85403 confirmed globally confirmed case of COVID-19 [1]. COVID-19 is dramatically increasing in Italy, the last report from the ministry of health on the 9th of march reported the presence of 9172 confirmed cases and 733 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) [2]. We agree with Chan et al that physicians managing airway procedures are at particularly high risk to contract the COVID-19 infection [3]. We support the authors that claimed for a full protective wearing including N95 respirator, gown, cap, eye protection, and gloves, during aerosol generating procedures (AGP) [3]. However, we’d like to focus the attention on the tracheostomy procedures in COVID-19 patients since otolaryngologists, anesthesiologists and intensive care physicians are at high risk of contracting the infection during tracheostomy [3]. Tracheostomy is required in case of prolonged mechanical ventilation and intensive care unit (ICU) stay [4]. Surgical tracheostomy is an AGP associated with an increased risk severe acute respiratory distress (SARS) infection [5]. Strict adherence to infection control guidelines in SARS is mandatory in performing tracheostomy in ICU or operating room [6].Few years ago, we proposed the double lumen endotracheal tube (DLET) for percutaneous tracheostomy in critically ill patients [7]. DLET was equipped with an upper channel that allows passage of a bronchoscope during the percutaneous tracheostomy and with a lower channel exclusively dedicated to patient ventilation [7]. The lower channel is equipped with a distal cuff positioned just above the carina that may allow a safe mechanical ventilation by keeping stable gas-exchange and limiting the spread of aerosol during the procedure [7]. During the percutaneous procedure, the puncture of the anterior tracheal wall, Seldinger insertion, dilatation, and cannula positioning were all performed with the DLET correctly placed in the trachea. The DLET was removed at the end of the tracheostomy when the cannula is inserted and correctly positioned with the FFB [7].Surgical tracheostomy in COVID-19 patients should be done with a close collaboration between otolaryngologists, preforming the surgical procedure, and anesthesiologists or intensive care physicians managing the general anesthesia and the airway.When a surgical tracheostomy is done under general anesthesia, just before the surgeon makes the tracheal stoma, the endotracheal tube is withdrawn, so that the cuff of the tube is not in the surgical field [8]. But when the surgeon makes the tracheal incision, ventilation is lost and the surgeon has to be quick enough to create the soma and insert the tracheostomy tube in a short time [8]. During this procedure a large spread of aerosol may occur. To avoid the aerosol, we suggest to push down the endotracheal tube beyond the site chosen for the tracheal stoma at the beginning of the procedure. The endotracheal tube should reach the tracheal carina so the cuff is surely distal to the tracheostomy site. By checking the airway pressure and the end-tidal CO2, on the mechanical ventilator we can realize if the endotracheal tube is still in the lower tract of the trachea or in the endobronchial tract. Our previous experience with the DLET demonstrated that the endotracheal tube and the tracheal cannula can be simultaneously inserted inside the trachea [7]. According to this, pushing down the endotracheal tube and cuffed it at the level of the carina may avoid the spread of aerosol and, then, may add an extra security for the medical staff during a procedure at high risk of generating aerosol.ReferencesCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Situation Report – 40.https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/situation-reports/20200229-sitrep-40-covid-19.pdfItalian Minister of Health. COVID-19 Italian cases.http://www.salute.gov.it/portale/nuovocoronavirus/dettaglioContenutiNuovoCoronavirus.jsp?lingua=italiano&id=5351&area=nuovoCoronavirus&menu=vuotoChan YJK, Wong EWY, Lam W. Practical Aspects of Otolaryngologic Clinical Services During the 2019 Novel Coronavirus EpidemicAn Experience in Hong Kong. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. Published online March 20, 2020. doi:10.1001/jamaoto.2020.0488Vargas M, Sutherasan Y, Antonelli M, Brunetti I, Corcione A, Laffey JG, et al. Tracheostomy procedures in the intensive care unit: an international survey. Critical Care 2015;19:291-301Tran K, Cimon K, Severn M et al. Aerosol Generating Procedures and Risk of Transmission of Acute Respiratory Infections to Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review. . PLoS ONE 2012; 7(4): e35797. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0035797Chun-Wing A, Yin -Chun L, Kit-Ying L. Management of Critically Ill Patients with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Int. J. Med. Sci. 2004 1(1): 1-10Vargas M, Servillo G, Tessitore G, Aloj F, Brunetti I, Arditi E, et al. Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy with a double-lumen endotracheal tube. A Comparison of Feasibility, Gas Exchange, and Airway Pressures. Chest 2015; 147:1267-74Walts PA, Sudish CM, DeCamp MM. Techniques of surgical tracheostomy. Clin Chest Med 24 (2003) 413 – 422

IntroductionAs the novel coronavirus (2019-nCov) globally spreads, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is straining healthcare workers worldwide [1]. In hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19, endotracheal intubation is one of the most common and indispensable life-saving interventions. In a recent report from the City of New York, 12% of COVID-19 patients required invasive mechanical ventilation [2]. Since difficult weaning and prolonged mechanical ventilation represent the two most common indications for tracheostomy in Intensive Care Unit (ICU), it may play a central role in COVID-19 management [3]. During the 2019-nCov pandemic the aerosol generating procedures, such as tracheostomy, expose physicians at high risk to contract the \soutCOVID-19 infection [4]. Accordingly, special consideration may be done to protect otolaryngologists, general surgeons and critical care physicians from the risk of infection while performing a tracheostomy in COVID-19 patients [5]. Percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) is routinely performed at the bedside in intensive care unit (ICU); unfortunately, a modified protocol to perform PT in COVID-19 patients included several critical steps associated with increased risk of aerosol generation, such as changing the catheter mount, repositioning the endotracheal tube cuff to the level of the vocal cords and removal of large dilator [6]. So far, there has been no prior description in the literature of how to minimize the aerosol generation during PT. We reported a modified percutaneous tracheostomy technique aiming to minimize the risk of aerosol generation and to increase the staff safety in COVID-19 patients.

Background: In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a rapid increase in telemedicine visits. Otolaryngology patient satisfaction with these visits has not yet been extensively studied using a validated survey. Methods: All patients who had telemedicine visits with three head and neck surgeons, by phone or video-based platform, between March 25, 2020 and April 24, 2020. Retrospective chart reviews were conducted to determine demographic, disease and treatment information. Patients who had a video visit were contacted by telephone and, if they could be reached and consented, were administered the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ).Results: 100 surveys were completed. The average score across all questions was 6.01 on a scale from 1-7, where 7 indicated the highest level of patient agreement. The highest scores were for questions related to satisfaction with telehealth (6.29), while the lowest were related to reliability (4.86). Conclusions: Patients are generally highly satisfied with telemedicine.

Background: During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, tracheostomy may be required for COVID-19 patients requiring long term ventilation in addition to other conditions such as airway compromise from head and neck cancer. As an aerosol generating procedure, tracheostomy increases healthcare worker exposure to COVID-19 infection. Performing surgical tracheostomy and tracheostomy care requires a strategy that mitigates these risks and maintains the quality of patient care.Methods: A multidisciplinary review of institutional tracheostomy guidelines and clinical pathways. Modifications to support clinical-decision making in the context of COVID-19 were derived by consensus and available evidence.  Results: Modified guidelines for all phases of tracheostomy care at an academic tertiary care center in the setting of COVID-19 are presented. Discussion: During the various phases of the  COVID-19 pandemic,  clinicians must carefully consider the indications, procedural precautions, and post-operative care for tracheostomies. We present guidelines to mitigate risk to healthcare workers while preserving the quality of care.

Background:  The COVID-19 pandemic has raised concern of transmission of infectious organisms through aerosols formation in endonasal and transoral surgery.Methods: Retrospective review. We introduce the Negative-Pressure Otolaryngology Viral Isolation Drape (NOVID) system to reduce the risk of aerosol. NOVID consists of a plastic drape suspended above the patient’s head and surgical field with a smoke evacuator suction placed inside the chamber.Results:  Four patients underwent endonasal (4) and endo-oral surgery (1). Fluorescein was applied to the surgical field. Black light examination of fluorescein treated operative fields revealed minimal contamination distant to the surgical field. In two prolonged cases with high-speed drilling, droplets were identified under the barrier and on the tip of the smoke evacuator. Instruments and cottonoids appeared to be a greater contributor to field contamination.Conclusions: Negative-pressure aspiration of air under a chamber barrier which appears to successfully keep aerosol and droplet contamination to a minimum.

UpdatesA general consensus exists on coronavirus diffusion by droplet transmission, especially the aerosolisation during hospital procedures like intubation or bronchoscopy might represent a big concern, exposing other patients and health-care staff to an increased risk of infection In this context, the general otolaryngology procedures may determine an aerosolisation with nosocomial amplification of the infection.In particular flexible and/or rigid nasolaryngoscopy may include some maneuvers such as puffing out your cheeks, talking, swallowing some coloured water or poking out your tongue. Further, the introduction of the endoscope may cause sneezing and cough.These risks can increase when in-office surgical procedures are applied to cure urgent and emergent pathologies such as epistaxis, removal of foreign bodies in upper aero-digestive tract, cricothyroidotomy as well as elective procedures such as biopsies, inferior turbinoplasty etc.Based on the available evidence, it appears that SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted by asymptomatic carriers, which contributes to its basic reproduction number and pandemic potential1.Zou et al2 showed higher viral loads after symptom onset, with higher viral loads detected in the nose than in the throat. Further in the asymptomatic patients, the viral load was similar to symptomatic patients, which suggests the transmission potential of asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic patients.The common work-load of a ENT are symptoms related to upper airways inflammations or infections. Sore throat with or without fever, sneezing, hoarseness may be prodromic symptoms of a COVID-19 infection in the incubation period3. Moreover, the coughing patients with a negative chest X-ray is one of the most consultation required.Direct contact of droplet spray produced by coughing, sneezing or talking involves relatively large droplets containing organisms and requires close contact usually within 1 m 4. Indirect contact may take place after the droplets are removed from the air by surface deposition5.Han et al6 studied the dynamic features of bio-aerosolisation by sneezing. The velocity of the airflow exhaled by sneeze is much larger than that of breath and cough. Moreover, the total number of droplets generated during sneeze is also larger than that of other respiratory activities. According to the study on flow dynamics and characterization of cough, the maximum velocity of exhaled airflow can be found at t = 57–110 ms for different persons which is most likely to occur at 100 ms. Usually, sneeze lasts 0.3–0.7 s, so t = 100 ms is in the duration of the sneeze. As the velocity of the airflow exhaled by sneeze is really high, it can be assumed that the droplets that are exhaled at t =0–100 ms will not re-enter the measurement zone before t=100 ms. The high-speed airflow and corresponding turbulence produced by sneeze may also lead to a large number of droplets, i.e. the number of the droplets generated by sneeze is about 18 times larger than that of cough. Further, the size of sneezing droplets is 341.5–398.1 µm for unimodal distribution and 73.6–85.8 µm for bimodal distribution. After the droplets are exhaled into the indoor environment, the evaporation effects will strongly influence the size and mass of the droplets. The final equilibrium diameter of expiratory droplets after evaporation is highly dependent upon the temperature and relative humidity of the environment. In the indoor environment, the relative humidity and temperature are much lower than those in the respiratory tract. So the volatile content of these droplets will keep evaporating and result in the shrinkage of the droplets.Definitively, these findings demonstrate that the routine activities of an otolaryngologist are constantly at high risk of contagion in COVID-19 epidemic areas.Taking a look at the current Italian situation, the experience of the region Veneto demonstrated that the application of COVID-19 screening also in asymptomatic people can reduce the contagion spreading. Thus, it seems clear that extend the screening to all health-workers included otolaryngologists could be a valid strategy to reduce the onset of a worst case scenario, the hospital outbreak.In conclusion, the professional exposure to SARS-CoV-2 is really high for the otolaryngologist and nurse staff, even in in-office settings. Personal protective equipments are strongly recommended as well as for health-workers in close contact with infected patients.REFERENCESZhu W, Xie K, Lu H, Xu L, Zhou S, Fang S. Initial clinical features of suspected Coronavirus Disease 2019 in two emergency departments outside of Hubei, China. J Med Virol. 2020 Mar 13. doi: 10.1002/jmv.25763. [Epub ahead of print]Zou L, Ruan F, Huang M et al. SARS-CoV-2 Viral Load in Upper Respiratory Specimens of Infected Patients. N Engl J Med. 2020 Feb 19. doi: 10.1056/NEJMc2001737. [Epub ahead of print]Lauer SA, Grantz KH, Bi Q et al. The Incubation Period of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) From Publicly Reported Confirmed Cases: Estimation and Application. Ann Intern Med. 2020 Mar 10. doi: 10.7326/M20-0504. [Epub ahead of print]Leder K, Newman D. Respiratory infections during air travel. Intern Med J. 2005 Jan;35(1):50-5.Chao CYH, Wan MP, Sze To GN. Transport and removal of expiratory droplets in hospital ward environment. Aerosol Sci Technol 2008;42, 377 – 394.Han ZY, Weng WG, Huang QY. Characterizations of particle size distribution of the droplets exhaled by sneeze. J R Soc Interface. 2013 Sep 11;10(88):20130560.

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed an extraordinary demand on the United States healthcare system. Many institutions have cancelled elective and non-urgent procedures to conserve resources and limit exposure. While operational definitions of elective and urgent categories exist, there is a degree of surgeon judgment in designation. In the present commentary, we provide a framework for prioritizing head and neck surgery during the pandemic. Unique considerations for the head and neck patient are examined including risk to the oncology patient, outcomes following delay in head and neck cancer therapy, and risk of transmission during otolaryngologic surgery. Our case prioritization criteria consist of four categories: urgent – proceed with surgery, less urgent – consider postpone > 30 days, less urgent – consider postpone 30–90 days, and case-by-case basis. Finally, we discuss our preoperative clinical pathway for transmission mitigation including defining low-risk and high-risk surgery for transmission and role of preoperative COVID-19 testing.

Introduction:The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was initially identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Following its spread across the globe within a matter of months, the World Health Organization classified COVID-19 as a pandemic.1 Its rapid transmission and high hospitalization rate have forced health professionals to drastically alter their practices in order to slow its proliferation. The rapid influx of COVID-19 related admissions in hospitals around the United States has led to a widespread shortage of crucial healthcare resources, particularly personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, and free ICU beds. Surgical procedures further deplete such resources in a time of acutely high need. Additionally, evidence has shown that healthcare workers may be particularly susceptible to infection from the causative pathogen, SARS-CoV-2, with roughly 20% of exposed professionals becoming infected in Italy.2Following these developments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that all inpatient facilities postpone or cancel any elective surgeries.3 In the ensuing weeks, the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery followed suit with this recommendation.4,5Furthermore, many hospitals and practices have opted to cancel in-person outpatient clinic visits, where patients oftentimes receive critical longitudinal care. Like other surgeons, otolaryngologists, and specifically head and neck surgical oncologists, have been deeply affected by these drastic measures. It is evident, however, that physicians must find ways to continue to monitor such patients’ conditions or treat them in some aspect. The popularity and prevalence of telemedicine has grown rapidly during this pandemic as many physicians have sought ways to maintain a continuum of care with their patients.6 Such initiatives have previously been shown to decrease costs, decrease visit time, and lead to high patient satisfaction in surgical fields.7,8Within otolaryngology specifically, certain telehealth assessments have been shown to allow for quicker examinations without compromising the communication of crucial information from the patient to the physician, or vice versa.9 However, the rapid implementation of telehealth has been a relatively new phenomenon during the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning that physicians oftentimes have to learn how to optimize their virtual visits to maximize their efficiency and effectiveness. In otolaryngology, telemedicine has not been routinely used to evaluate patients, despite estimates that 62% of otolaryngology patients would be amenable to virtual appointments.10Thus, it may be difficult for physicians to anticipate barriers to their care during a telehealth visit. Based on the authors’ experience, there exists a steep learning curve following the onset of such visits due to a variety of factors on both the patient’s and physician’s side.To our knowledge, there are no set guidelines or best practices for patients or head and neck cancer physicians conducting virtual visits. Drawing upon our experience, we aim to compile a set of guidelines for physicians and patients alike to navigate telehealth visits during the era of COVID-19. We also created a handout that can be distributed to patients prior to the visit, such that patients can familiarize themselves with general expectations and key examination steps that they may be asked to perform during the visit.

Background: The novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) is spread through aerosol and fine droplets, and poses many challenges to medical practitioners. Otolaryngologists are at an exceptionally high-risk, due to common aerosol-generating procedures such as tracheostomy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical guidelines for tracheostomy in reference to SARS-CoV-2 and provide a collective summary of recommendations.Methods: Literature review was performed. Articles reporting clinical practice guidelines for tracheostomy in the context of SARS-CoV-2 were included.Results: Tracheostomies are a common surgical procedure performed by otolaryngologists. There may be expanding indications in the COVID-19 patient population. Ventilation using a tracheostomy has many potential benefits and a summary of recommendations for tracheostomy (elective or emergent) and tracheostomy management in COVID-19 positive patients are detailed within this article. Conclusions: In patients testing positive for COVID-19, this summary of recommendations serves as a guideline along with institutional protocols.

As the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) globally spreads, the Covid-19 pandemic is straining healthcare workers worldwide. In hospitalized patients with severe Covid-19, endotracheal intubation is one of the most common and indispensable life-saving interventions. For patients in need of long-term endotracheal intubation, tracheostomy may be considered. Some patients with unfavorable neck anatomy, such as short neck, enlarged thyroid, and neck cicatricial contracture, are not suitable for percutaneous tracheostomy, a minimally invasive method1. In these circumstances, conventional open tracheostomy is the primary option for surgeons. However, it is one of the most hazardous procedures, because the direct airway opening and the coughing of patients causes aerosolization of the virus potentially exposing healthcare workers2. To prevent healthcare-associated infections, we are willing to share our modified tracheostomy procedures with other surgeons worldwide.Detailed optimized procedures are illustrated in Figure 1. There are three distinct steps to protect healthcare workers from the virus spreading in the surgical environment during tracheostomy. First, all procedures should under general anesthesia, with deprivation of spontaneous respiration and application of muscle relaxants (Figure 1A), regardless of whether patients had spontaneous breathing or not. This step is to restrain the cough reflex caused by tracheal stimulation. Second, after the cervical trachea is exposed and immediately before an incision is made in the trachea, the endotracheal tube (ETT) is inserted deeper, positioned with the tip close to carina of the trachea (Figure 1B). This step would prevent the ETT cuff leak due to an accidental damage to the cuff when making the tracheal opening. Third, when the opening is complete, brief interruption of the ventilator is essential. Then the ETT is pulled out, and subsequently the tracheostomy tube quickly inserted into the opening (Figure 1C). Almost simultaneously, the tracheostomy tube cuff is inflated and the tube rapidly connected to the ventilator, with immediate resumption of the ventilator (Figure 1D). Suspension of ventilation support was usually not more than 15 seconds, with satisfactory oxygen saturation.This report describes the optimized procedures in tracheostomy for Covid-19 patients. The three major modifications can avoid the aerosolization of secretions, and protect healthcare workers. Thus, we strongly recommend the modified procedures to be a choice for all surgeons when tracheostomy is considered for Covid-19 patients. It is important to protect healthcare workers from coronavirus during the intraoperative period for their own health and for preservation of the healthcare workforce.Figure

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused rapid changes in head and neck cancer (HNC) care. ‘Real-time’ methods to monitor practice patterns can optimize provider safety and patient care.Methods: Head and neck surgeons from 14 institutions in the United States regularly contributed their practice patterns to a shared spreadsheet. Data from March 27th, 2020 to April 5th, 2020 was analyzed.Results: All institutions had significantly restricted HNC clinic evaluations. 2 institutions stopped free flap surgery with the remaining scheduling surgery by committee review. Factors contributing to reduced clinical volume included lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) (35%) and lack of rapid COVID-19 testing (86%).Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a reduction in HNC care. Rapid COVID-19 testing and correlation with infectious potential remain paramount to resuming the care of head and neck cancer patients. Cloud-based platforms to share practice patterns will be essential as the pandemic evolves.

Since December 2019, a number of patients with novel coronavirus pneumonia (NCP) have been identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. NCP has rapidly spread to other provinces and cities in China and other countries in the world. Due to the rapid increase in reported cases in China and around the world, on January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Committee announced that NCP is a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). However, there are relatively few suggestions and measures for tumor patients, especially patients with head and neck tumors. This article summarizes the prevention and control of disease in our medical institution to provide a reference for front-line head and neck surgeons.

The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has presented the world and physicians with a unique public health challenge. In light of its high transmissibility and large burden on the healthcare system, many hospitals and practices have opted to cancel elective surgeries in order to mobilize resources, ration personal protective equipment and guard patients from the virus. Head and neck cancer physicians are particularly affected by these changes given their scope of practice, complex patient population, and interventional focus. In this viewpoint, we discuss some of the many challenges faced by head and neck surgeons in this climate. Additionally, we outline the utility of telemedicine as a potential strategy for allowing physicians to maintain an effective continuum of care.

Evan Graboyes MD, MPH1, John Cramer MD2, Karthik Balakrishnan MD3, David M. Cognetti MD4, Daniel López-Cevallos, PhD, MPH5, John R. de Almeida MD, MSc6, Uchechukwu C. Megwalu MD, MPH3, Charles E. Moore MD7, Cherie-Ann Nathan MD8, Matthew E. Spector MD9, Carol M. Lewis MD, MPH10, Michael J. Brenner MD9 Authors Affiliations:1.      Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC2.      Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI3.      Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA4.      Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA5.      School of Language, Culture & Society, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR6.      University Health Network/ Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON7.      Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery Emory University, Atlanta, GA8.      Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA9.      Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI10.  Head & Neck Surgery, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX Corresponding Author:Michael J. Brenner, MDDepartment of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck SurgeryUniversity of Michigan1500 East Medical Center Drive, SPC 53121904 Taubman CenterAnn Arbor, MI 48109- 5312Email: [email protected] Running Head: Disparities HNC COVID-19 Acknowledgements/Funding Support: This work was supported by K08CA237858 from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and DDCF2015209 from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation to Dr. Graboyes. The funding organizations had no influence on the design and conduct of the study; collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of the data; preparation, review, or approval of the manuscript; and decision to submit the manuscript for publication. Conflicts of Interest: none Key words: healthcare delivery, COVID-19, head and neck cancer, racial and ethnic disparities, social determinants of health, Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly disrupted head and neck cancer (HNC) care delivery in ways that will likely persist long-term. As we scan the horizon, this crisis has the potential to amplify pre-existing racial/ethnic disparities for HNC patients. Potential drivers of disparate HNC survival resulting from the pandemic include 1) differential access to telemedicine, timely diagnosis, and treatment; 2) implicit bias in initiatives to triage, prioritize, and schedule HNC-directed therapy; and 3) the effects of loss of employment, health insurance, and dependent care. We present four strategies to mitigate these disparities: 1) collect detailed data on access to care by race/ethnicity, income, education, and community; 2) raise awareness of HNC disparities; 3) engage stakeholders in developing culturally appropriate solutions; and 4) ensure that surgical prioritization protocols minimize risk of racial/ethnic bias. Collectively, these measures address social determinants of health and the moral imperative to provide equitable, high quality HNC care.

Background: This case highlights challenges in the assessment and management of the “difficult airway” patient in the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic era. Methods: A 60-year-old male with history of recent TORS resection, free flap reconstruction and tracheostomy for p16+ squamous cell carcinoma presented with stridor and dyspnea one month after decannulation. Careful planning by a multidisciplinary team allowed for appropriate staffing and personal protective equipment, preparations for emergency airway management, evaluation via nasopharyngolaryngoscopy, and COVID testing. The patient was found to be COVID negative and underwent imaging which revealed new pulmonary nodules and a tracheal lesion. Results: The patient was safely transorally intubated in the operating room. The tracheal lesion was removed endoscopically and tracheostomy was avoided. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of careful and collaborative decision making for the management of head and neck cancer and other “difficult airway” patients during the COVID-19 epidemic.

IntroductionThe rapid spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) worldwide raised concerns about its heavy impact on the health care delivery system and forced significant changes in the realities of the clinical practice we are accustomed to. With these changes comes a need for a different approach to outpatient evaluation of common otolaryngology complaints in patients with new symptoms.Recently published set of guidelines for evaluation of head and neck during the COVID-19 pandemic recommended to postpone the management of benign disease including benign salivary or thyroid gland disease.1 In order to limit the chance of COVID-19 infection among patients or health care workers, surveying patients via telephone or telemedicine visit was advised, reserving in-person evaluation for the patients at risk for significant negative outcomes. The challenge is that these measures can only be applied in clear-cut clinical scenarios, when the disease process is most likely benign and the care delivery can be postponed.In cases with a high degree of uncertainty based on available clinical information, many physicians will have to decide how to proceed after initial telemedicine encounter. Clinicians will have to consider how to balance a potential delay in diagnosis, including cancer diagnosis, against the risk of COVID-19 exposure, and may need to exercise their best judgement knowing that for head and neck cancer the risk of progression with cancer care delay is high.2 In this communication, we present our approach to triaging and evaluation of patients with complaints concerning for salivary gland disease.

BackgroundThe coronavirus infection is rapidly spreading putting a strain on healthcare services across the globe. Oral cancer patients are susceptible often immunosuppressed due to the disease and/or the treatment received.MethodsWe performed a simulationof the currently available data using a multi state and hazards model to provide an objective model for counseling and decision making for healthcare workers.ResultsStage IV oral cancer patients that did not receive treatment had progression of disease and an increased mortality rate than patients that receive treatment but did not contract COVID-19. The patients that received treatment and got affected with COVID-19 had a far worse impact and higher mortality rate than all other groups.ConclusionIsolation and deferring treatment for stage IV oral cancer patients, so as to avoid hospital visits and contration of COVID-19, is an advisable strategy based on this model.