Covid-19 and Plastic Surgery: a case report of complex wound treatment

Abstract

Introduction: The Covid-19 pandemic significantly changed the routine and work of medical specialties. We report the case of a patient treated by Plastic Surgery who contracted the Sars-CoV-2 virus. Case report: A 66-year-old man with a complex wound on his ankle was treated with surgical debridement and negative pressure therapy, and subsequently underwent cutaneous wound coverage with a partial skin graft. In the immediate postoperative period, a dry cough started. That same day a positive examination of the new coronavirus was confirmed in another patient who was in the same room. Therefore, we requested PCR testing, which was also positive for the presence of Sars-CoV-2. The patient evolved well, being discharged on the 5th postoperative day, after the removal of Brown's dressing, and returning after the recommended isolation period (14 days). Discussion: The management of patients who need surgical procedures during a viral pandemic must consider the adoption of preventive measures that reduce the possibility of transmission of the virus. As an example, we mention the reduction in hospital stay, the use of therapies that speed up the therapeutic process, the isolation of the patient on confirmed cases, and the use of personal protective equipment. Conclusion: Despite the infection of this patient by Sars-CoV-2, we emphasize that the Plastic Surgery team must act early during the treatment process. Such actions reduce the possibility of spreading the new coronavirus to other patients and the healthcare team.

Keywords

• sars virus
• plastic surgery
• coronavirus
• wounds and injuries
• debridement