In a recent episode of UAB MedCast- a collection of audio presentations that highlight the latest medical and research innovations at UAB Medicine- Department of Surgery Chair Herbert Chen, M.D., FACS, sat down to discuss what UAB is doing to make operating rooms safe during COVID-19.

As the COVID-19 pandemic first unfolded, the event introduced new challenges to surgical cases. Surgical processes have had to adapt to PPE shortages and increased risks of exposure to COVID-19 through procedures like intubation. Although we continue to ride the wave of this global pandemic, Chen assures listeners during the Mar. 19 episode that UAB Medicine is taking extensive precautions to keep operating rooms- and all hospital and clinical locations- safe during this time.

Specifically, Chen shares about the current recommendations regarding CMS adult elective surgery and procedures, PPE initiatives and how UAB and the department are assessing the risk of aerosol spread during intubation. He discusses how the department is working to minimize exposure during intubation and how the dedicated PACU Spots ORs and pathways are determined.

If you have an idea for UAB Medcast, email surgcomm@uabmc.edu.

Listen to Chen’s MedCast episode here, and remember, these podcasts are eligible for CME credit. To earn the credit, the listener must take a post test that is available on the UAB MedCast home page.