Ground Plan for Performing Emergency Surgery for Suspected and Confirmed COVID-19 Patients

Introduction: the coronavirus disease 2019 (covid-19) crisis has created a huge challenge for healthcare systems all over the world. different health policies have been adopted with variable success rates. this study aims to provide a practical pathway for managing surgical patients in the current covid-19 pandemic. methods: a modified framework of local policies and pathways is suggested to deal with acute surgical admissions and semi-emergency conditions. this includes logistic changes in the hospitals’ infrastructure, staff allocation, and the use of suitable personal protection equipment. results: the introduction of the suggested changes is expected to improve the delivery of the services and to reduce the risks for both patients and staff. about 80 operations have been conducted since the implementation of these changes. conclusion: challenges with the covid-19 pandemic have required each health system to adequately respond to the crisis by introducing urgent, fundamental changes to the current surgical practices. the local managerial policies of each hospital are likely to evolve throughout the crisis.