P111 The impact of COVID-19 on a tertiary interventional bronchoscopy service

Abstract

P111 Figure 1Monthly percentage change in referrals during pandemic from pre-pandemic year. National trend in COVID-19 cases in background for comparison[Figure omitted. See PDF]ConclusionsThe data shows the impact of the pandemic on our tertiary service with an increase in referrals over the year following the first lockdown. More patients required emergency inpatient transfers and a higher proportion required airway stents reflecting more advanced and symptomatic disease. Unsurprisingly, the busiest months followed the national peaks of COVID-19 cases. The public health messaging required to control the pandemic, although necessary, coupled with an overlap of symptoms has resulted in an increase in presentations of life-threatening MCAO. This highlights the importance of early detection of lung cancer and recognition of symptoms of central airway obstruction.