covid-19 affects orthopedic treatment

The global pandemic ‘Coronavirus’ causing Covid-19 has shaken the foundations of the world economy and the medical fraternity is no exception.

The process of taking in emergencies, dealing with routine check-ups, and dealing with impending surgeries has caused anxiety among orthopedics all over the globe. 

The uncertainty looming over the world, the recession in the economy, and the furlough of employees have impacted the world economy at large.

This has given a serious blow to the treatment procedure across the world. The anxiety among surgeons, the postponement of elective surgeries, the post-care of critical patients, and the fear of contracting the virus have upended the lives of top-notch orthopedics and the overall medical fraternity.

A thought-provoking point arises even if there is lockdown- the movement and trade can stop, the medical emergencies cannot.

So you must read on further to gear yourself as to one can respond if there is a medical orthopedic emergency in the present scenario.

Dr. Tanveer Bhutani, the senior orthopedic at EVA Hospital says, “There is an inhibition in the minds of patients seeking medical help due to the fear of Covid-19. But you should not wait to consult in case of an orthopedic emergency which can cause trauma later on.”

What are the Orthopedic Emergencies that need Immediate Attention?

‘Emergencies must be dealt with immediate action.’ There may be a minor or major orthopedic injury or trauma, but it must be taken seriously to avoid any serious implications later on. Following are some cases where patients must be rushed to the nearest hospital or the most trusted orthopedic:

• Fracture

It is evident that the excruciating pain post a fall or slip may imply a fracture in the bone. You must rush the patient immediately to the orthopedic to avoid the delay.

• PIVD cases

If the patient experiences severe pain in the spine, it may be because of a prolapsed intervertebral disc (PIVD) in the spine. ‘Slip disc’, as it is commonly called, can be extremely painful.

• Gangrene

This is a serious problem when tissues in the body die due to the paucity of blood. It may happen anywhere in the body- fingers, toes, limbs, or even organs and muscles. 

• Dislocation of Joint

The slip of bone out of a joint in the shoulder, knee, hip, or ankle can make you wince in pain. You must rush to the best orthopedic for immediate treatment.

A sudden jerk, slip or even a previous dislocation may cause the dislocation of the joint. 

Also read: How to treat Recurrent Shoulder Dislocation.

• Osteomyelitis

Any infection in the bone, though rare, needs immediate attention and can be serious. An open surgical wound or a weak immune system can make bacteria enter the body. It can adversely affect children too.

• Severe Hip or Knee Pain

Severe pain in the knee or hip may occur with a sudden twist or while practicing sports exercises and it may stop you from doing your normal chores.

You may have heard a tweaking sound or popping locking. The orthopedic must be consulted immediately and there may be a chance that your hip replacement surgery or knee replacement surgery needs a follow-up.

All the medical emergencies stated above must be taken seriously and reported to the orthopedic at the earliest.

These are called medical emergencies because they can cause a threat to life, the threat to the limb, or may even lead to permanent disability. Any medical emergency, if delayed, can cause serious implications at a later stage.

What are the Precautions the Patients must take to avoid Covid-19?

Dr. Tanveer Bhutani highly recommends that patients must be accompanied by one attendant only so that there is no crowding in the hospital.

Following are some precautions outlined by Dr. Bhutani for the complete patient and attendant safety:

1. Rush the patient with acute trauma (in case of an accident) to the nearest hospital or health care unit so that the initial treatment starts and the patient does not lose his life.
2. A patient with any kind of fall at home should be rushed to the trusted orthopedic at the earliest.
3. Only one or a maximum of two attendants must be accompanied by the patient to avoid crowding and adhere to social distancing norms.
4. In case of simple or bearable neck pain or back pain, it is advised to consult the doctor virtually rather than rushing to the OPD.
5. The attendants must be equipped with masks at all times.

What Are the Safety Precautions You Must Look at in a Hospital?

The patient may be in a critical condition, but you should not compromise with the precautions and safety protocols at the hospital in times of Covid-19. Dr. Bhutani proudly says EVA Hospital has been following all the precautions religiously.

Following are some safety protocols all the hospitals must observe:

• The hospital must have a fully running 24 hours emergency ward where nurses and technicians are on duty equipped with PPE kits.
• The doctors and healthcare professionals must adhere to the preventive measures as per the ICMR guidelines strictly.
• A virtual OPD can help patients suffering from mild pains to seek treatment without rushing to the hospital.
• A well-sanitized hospital with equipment sanitized after every use is a mandatory requirement.

Final Words

Panicking or being emotional at the time of orthopedic emergencies can cost the patient his life. For any kind of orthopedic emergency get in touch with Punjab’s best orthopedic, Dr. Tanveer Bhutani, and be assured of safety as EVA Hospital follows all the safety procedures judiciously. Do not panic or delay and seek the guidance of Dr. Bhutani in case of orthopedic injury.