EP.TU.651Training Opportunity In A Non Covid Private Hospital During The Initals Phase Of Sars-Cov-2 Pandemic-Our Experience
Abstract Aim We would like to share our experience in the unique opportunity our surgical trainees had, while operating in a NON COVID private hospital. Methods We did a retrospective data collection from 1st of April till 31st May 2020. The data was collected about the patients who underwent elective surgery in a non COVID private hospital selected by our NHS trust. The selected patients were asked to self-isolate for 2 weeks prior to surgery date. They also underwent 2 swab tests, the first one a week before and another one 48 hours before the surgery date along with a chest X-ray. Only the patients who tested negative on swabs were operated in the private setup. Results There were 17 elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies and 42 breast surgeries performed. The primary operating surgeon were trainees in around 80 percent cases. Ours was the first NHS trust to start this in the North East England. There was no increase in operating time, but the turnover time was nearly doubled because the guidelines for safe anesthesia and surgery during this pandemic were strictly followed. We did not have any complications or readmission related to surgery in this cohort of patients. There was no reported SARS-CoV-2 infection to patients and the involved medical staff. Conclusion The opportunity for continuity of surgical training in a private setup is a possibility and should be explored more in future.