Exoscope-assisted Otologic Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVE: The recent COVID-19 pandemic has required careful reconsideration of safe operating room practices. We describe our initial experiences performing otologic surgery with the exoscope during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: The exoscope was used for several semiurgent otologic surgeries in combination with complete eye protection, a "tent" drape, a smoke evacuator with ultra-low particulate air filter, and betadine irrigation. These techniques are demonstrated in the accompanying video. This was compared with our experiences using the microscope. RESULTS: The described modified goggles allowed complete eye protection while providing a fully three-dimensional view of the surgical site. The other safety measures described are simple and efficient techniques which can easily be adopted for otologic surgery using the microscope. CONCLUSION: Use of the exoscope for otologic surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic allows full three-dimensional visualization of the surgical field while simultaneously providing complete eye protection. Use of the "tent" drape, ultra-low particulate air filter, and betadine irrigation are also options that otologic surgeons may consider for additional safety.