Analyzing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on surgical operations in a specialized orthopedic hospital

Information for nursing staff, 2025, 57(3), 19-24.

V. Angelov

Univerity Hospital of Orthopedics “Prof. B. Boichev”

Abstract. Objective. To analyze the activities of surgical clinics within a specialized orthopedic hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Methods. The study encompasses the activity of the University Specialized Hospital in Orthopedics “Prof. B. Boychev” – Sofia, during the state of emergency, compared to the period 2018-2019. For a more detailed analysis, four peak periods with the highest number of newly confirmed COVID-19 cases nationally were additionally observed. Results. During the study period, the available bed capacity for surgical treatment of orthopedic patients decreased by an average of 13.2%. During the peak periods, an average of 21.6% of physicians and 24.64% of the total medical staff directly involved in surgical activities were reassigned to the newly established COVID-19 treatment unit. A reduction of approximately 5% in the number of hospitalized orthopedic surgery patients was observed, along with a decrease in the average length of hospital stay, a reduction in the number of reconstructive surgeries in adults, and a decrease in surgeries involving the upper limbs and feet. Conversely, there was an increase of over 20% in emergency trauma and oncologic orthopedic hospitalizations, with the most significant impact noted during the fourth wave. Throughout the pandemic period, 106 cases of COVID-19 infection among medical personnel were recorded at the institution, all of which were mild and acquired outside the hospital. Nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 RNA (PCR-confirmed) infection was diagnosed in 6 operated patients post-hospitalization. Conclusions. Surgical activities in orthopedic clinics can be successfully maintained during a pandemic by adhering to strict epidemiological protocols and ensuring good organization of the workflow. The integration of telemedicine into orthopedic practice is strongly recommended.

Key words: lifestyle, reproductive health, smoking, alcohol, drugs, diet, physical activity

Address for correspondence: Assoc. Prof. Valentin Angelov, MD, PhD, e-mail: angelotti@abv.bg