Conclusions
The world is experiencing an unprecedented challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Lessons learned include the need to “flatten the curve” and prevent spread in the community; increased risks of transmission to otolaryngologists, oral maxillofacial surgeons, dentists, and anesthesiologists; and tactics to limit the risk of spread.  Rigorous adherence to infection control measures and attention to rapidly changing policies and procedures is essential to mitigate the spread of this disease.  New challenges are emerging, including the ability provide care for patients with an urgent need for time-sensitive care, such as head and neck cancer patients, when our healthcare systems are at running capacity and/or overwhelmed.
This review summarizes some of the more readily available clinical protocols for head and neck specialists caring for patients in an environment of a SARS CoV-2 mediated COVID-19 pandemic. Recommendations are based largely on relatively small series, often from single centers, and national position statements. Some represent expert opinion and application from experiences with other diseases. Resources and policies may vary not only between countries, but also between hospitals.
The medical community is accruing information rapidly and standards are likely to change quickly with additional results. We must learn from one another as the disease crosses the globe so as to integrate the lessons into practice before too many patients and their caregivers succumb in the pandemic. Only time will reveal which approaches are most robust and generally applicable. Head and neck specialists should not allow their commitment to patient care override self-preservation—healthcare personnel form the most valuable resource in every country during the pandemic. There is a need for system and hospital-based decision-making to support healthcare teams, which are composed of dedicated but vulnerable individuals.