Impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Endoscopy:A Questionnaire-based Internet Survey of 162 Institutional Experiences in Asia Pacific
10.5223/pghn.2023.26.6.291
- Author:
Andy DARMA
1
;
Katsuhiro ARAI
;
Jia-feng WU
;
Nuthapong UKARAPOL
;
Shin-ichiro HAGIWARA
;
Seak Hee OH
;
Suporn TREEPONGKARUNA
;
Author Information
1. Department of Child Health, Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition
2023;26(6):291-300
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:The impact of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) on gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy procedures in adults has been reported, with a drastic reduction in the number of procedures.However, there are no sufficient data regarding the impact on pediatric GI endoscopy. Here, we aimed to report that impact in the Asia-Pacific region.
Methods:A questionnaire-based internet survey was conducted from June to November 2021 among pediatric endoscopy institutions in the Asia-Pacific region, with each institution providing a single response. Overall, 25 questions focused on the impact of the number of procedures conducted, the usage of personal protective equipment (PPE), and endoscopy training programs during the pandemic.
Results:A total of 162 institutions across 13 countries in the Asia-Pacific region participated in the study, and 133 (82.1%) institutions underwent procedure changes since the emergence of COVID-19. The number of esophagogastroduodenoscopy and ileocolonoscopy procedures decreased in 118/133 (88.7%) and 112/133 (84.2%) institutions, respectively. Endoscopy for patient with positive COVID-19 in an emergency or urgent cases still carried out in 102/162 (62.9%) institutions. Screening of COVID-19 for all patients before endoscopy was done across 110/162 (67.9%) institutions. PPE recommendations varied among institutions.Pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy training programs were discontinued in 127/162 (78.4%) institutions.
Conclusion:This study reports the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy in the Asia-Pacific region. There has been a significant reduction in the number of endoscopic procedures and relevant training programs.
