Background: Elective cardiac surgical operations were resumed after a period of decline of infection rate of COVID-19 pandemic. Guidelines and recommendations are formulated for safe resumption. The aim of this study was to present our experience of reopening of cardiac surgical activities.
Methods: A double-centered prospective longitudinal study was performed in cardiac surgery departments at Zagazig University hospitals and Nasser Institute starting from 1st July to 15th September. COVID PCR swab and CT chest were done for all patients and positive cases were postponed. Safety measures were strictly followed. We applied a strategy for patient selection and recruitment of medical staff for surgical activities.
Results: Sixteen patients were positive for COVID-19 and not admitted. We operated 177 patients (165 elective, 12 emergent). Two patients were found positive postoperatively and died from pulmonary complications. One surgeon was infected and survived.
Conclusion: preliminary results of resuming cardiac surgical activities were encouraging. Strict adherence to preventive measures and adopting appropriate strategy for patient selection are crucial for safety of patients and health care givers.