In the August issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology (CGH), Drs. Yeong Yeh Lee, Albert J. Bredenoord and Prakash Gyawali provide clinicians with practical guidelines to assist with triage management of patients with esophageal symptoms in need of physiologic testing. Read their article: Recommendations for Essential Esophageal Physiologic Testing During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Performing nonemergent clinical procedures while following social distancing guidelines have impacted elective interactions, such as esophageal physiologic testing, between clinicians and their patients. To function under these unique circumstances, clinicians must prioritize high-risk patients for adverse consequences without testing over patients with elective indications in order to expedite symptom relief and prevent complications, ultimately shortening hospital stays.
It is important to note that the testing alternatives in this commentary are not equivalent to the optimal physiological test but should be weighed against delaying the diagnostic esophageal physiological test until this can be performed safely.
Adhering to these recommendations will not only provide a safe environment for patients during the pandemic but can also be beneficial in prioritizing testing on the backlog of patients once clinical activities continue.
Read the full article in the August issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
