The Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Urolithiasis Management and Urologists in the Gulf Countries: A Survey of Urologists in GCC

Abstract

Objective: To explore the effects of COVID-19 on urolithiasis management and on the medical practice of urologists in Gulf countries. Methods: A web-based survey was sent to urologists in the six countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The survey consisted of 23 questions about their working environment, urolithiasis management experience, and the policies of their facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: During the one-week survey period, responses were received from 191 urologists working in the six GCC countries. Responses were received from urologists in all six countries but the numbers differed markedly. Of the 191 urologists who responded, 160 (83.8%) were experienced urologists and 31 (16.2%) were urology residents. Eighty-four (44.0%) volunteered for COVID-19 management rather than urology, 22 (11.5%) were infected with COVID-19 and 38 (19.9%) sought mental health support. Clinical duties related to urolithiasis management were reduced for most of the urologists, with elective procedures postponed and urolithiasis management confined to emergency conditions. In the absence of COVID-19 infection, 67 (35.1%) preferred to actively manage ureteral stones, whereas the remaining urologists preferred less invasive methods, such as conservative or instant drainage. Conclusion: COVID-19 is hazardous to urologists in GCC countries, with 11.5% being infected and most reducing their clinical duties related to urolithiasis management. Although urolithiasis management in GCC countries during the COVID-19 pandemic was generally consistent with worldwide guidelines, some differences were observed,