Use of a modified plastic viewing system for safer general anesthesia care in pediatric ophthalmic surgery during the covid-19 pandemic

Certain pediatric ophthalmology procedures require time-sensitive surgical care to prevent long-term morbidity and mortality. In the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become increasingly important for anesthesia and surgical care providers to protect themselves during medically necessary procedures requiring general anesthesia care. In this study, an intubating viewing system with plexiglass shield and drape was designed. The viewing system allowed effective and safe intubation of pediatric patients for ophthalmological surgery while minimizing the risk of disseminating aerosolized droplets. The authors concluded that this viewing system and modified intubation technique may reduce the risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2 and other highly transmissible pathogens to operating room personnel. The continued study of measures to protect operating room personnel is encouraged to provide more evidence-based recommendations.