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Case Study
Published: 16-11-2020

Successful adaptation during COVID-19 pandemic: suspected head and neck cancer biopsies under local anaesthetic

Department of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZN, UK
Foundation Year doctor, Department of surgery, Ninewells hospital, NHS Tayside, Dundee, UK
Department of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZN, UK
Foundation Year doctor, Department of surgery, Ninewells hospital, NHS Tayside, Dundee, UK
Department of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZN, UK
COVID-19 Pandemic Head and neck cancer Biopsy Local anaestheticm Outpatient

Abstract

Patients with a suspicious lesion in the head and neck region, including the pharynx and larynx, often undergo biopsy under general anaesthetic. This is a long established practice but lately, biopsy of such lesions under local anaesthetic in the outpatient setting is promoted. During the current COVID-19 pandemic our access to the operating theatre is significantly reduced. We have, therefore, modified our practice to allow us to carry out such biopsies under local anaesthetic in the outpatient setting. We share our experience with 20 patients who successfully underwent this procedure. The patients reported no adverse effects. We would encourage colleagues in other units to consider this option when dealing with such patients during the pandemic.

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How to Cite

Cooper, F., Baig, H., Asimakopoulos, P., W Ah-See, K., & Shakeel, M. (2020). Successful adaptation during COVID-19 pandemic: suspected head and neck cancer biopsies under local anaesthetic. MedNEXT Journal of Medical and Health Sciences, 1(1), 15–18. https://doi.org/10.34256/mdnt2013