Bronchoscopy in children with COVID-19: A case series

Introduction: The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) era is a challenging time for respiratory teams to protect their patients and staff. COVID-19 is predominantly transmitted by respiratory droplets; in the clinical setting, aerosol generating procedures pose the greatest risk for COVID-19 transmission. Bronchoscopy is associated with increased risk of patient-to-health care worker transmission, owing to aerosolized viral particles which may be inhaled and also result in environmental contamination of surfaces.

Methods: We describe our experience with the use of modified full-face snorkeling masks for pediatric bronchoscopy procedures in four COVID-19 infected children when filtering facepieces/respirators were in limited supply.

Results: Bronchoscopy was urgently required in four children, and could not be delayed until COVID-19 test results were available. During the pandemic peak, when respirators were in short supply, modified full-face snorkel masks (SEAC Libera, SEAC, Italy) were worn by the bronchoscopy team. Each mask was fitted with an O-ring, adapter, and heat and moisture exchanger filter. To date, there have been no COVID-19 infections among the bronchoscopy team staff, whereas the overall Hospital staff COVID-19 prevalence rate has exceeded 13.5% (667/4949).

Conclusion: Emergency bronchoscopy procedures on COVID-19 infected patients or patients with unknown infection status can be safely performed using modified full-face snorkel masks.