Minimal invasive surgery during COVID-19 pandemic: A review of current and emerging evidence

The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated restructuring of surgical care globally. Concerns were raised about the continued practice of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) during the pandemic due to risk of viral transmission especially from pneumoperitoneum. As the pandemic progressed, some of the initial recommendations to address this concern were revised and some centres have gradually resumed offering MIS for a select group of patients. This is a commentary on global recommendations and guidelines on laparoscopy since the beginning of the pandemic including eight published guidelines and six original articles. Currently, there is no convincing evidence to support increased risk of viral transmission during minimally invasive compared to open surgery. Laparoscopy is still considered a safe approach during the COVID-19 pandemic when undertaken by experienced surgeons. However, judicious case selection, modification to standard practices with additional safety precautions is universally recommended.