Head and Neck Cancer Surgery Volume During COVID-19 in Alabama

A 55% reduction in surgical volume was observed at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic by the head and neck oncologic surgery division at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The data compares case numbers and types during the pandemic with time-matched historical data. The paper outlines the division's strategy for case triage, PPE use, and minimizing personnel exposure.

Use Cases

• Analyze the impact of COVID-19 on surgical case volume based on the reported 55% reduction.
• Study hospital operational strategies during a pandemic based on described approaches to triage and PPE utilization.
• Model resource allocation for surgical departments based on the described changes in case types and numbers.

Strengths

• Quantifies a specific 55% reduction in surgical volume during the pandemic peak.
• Provides a real-world case study from a tertiary care center in Alabama.

Limitations

• Row count and specific column definitions are unknown, limiting suitability assessment.
• Data freshness is unknown; the last update date is not provided.
• The geographic scope is limited to a single institution in Alabama.

Provenance

Source

University of Alabama at Birmingham, academic otolaryngology department.

Collection Method

Data obtained during the pandemic and compared with time-matched historical data.

Time Range

During the COVID-19 pandemic (specific dates unknown).

Geography

Alabama, United States (Deep South tertiary care center).