Preventive measures for lacrimal procedures during the outbreak of COVID-19: perspective

Abstract

Aerosols are a major route of transmission of COVID-19. Lacrimal procedures such as lacrimal irrigation, manipulation, and surgery involve aerosols. We searched the PubMed database for articles related to preventive measures of lacrimal procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seven relevant articles were reviewed. Preoperative measures include patient screening, triage, and use of personal protective equipment. Intraoperative measures include procedure-specific aerosol reduction, use of povidone-iodine as disinfectant, and use of personal protective equipment. Postoperative measures include use of telemedicine for follow-up. Elective lacrimal procedures were suspended periodically and resumed when the outbreak subsided, with strict implementation of guidelines. The preventive measures may be effective in lowering the risk of transmission from patients potentially positive with COVID-19.