PilotSARS-CoV-2: Transmission in Air and Environment during Endoscopy [COVID-19]
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A pilot study to evaluate aerosol generation and environmental contamination during endoscopy of patients positive or with a high probability of SARS-CoV-2 infection
IRAS ID
285429
Contact name
Khoon Sheng Kok
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Liverpool University Hospitals Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
The understanding of modes of transmission of the virus (SARS-CoV-2) causing the current pandemic is incomplete. It is known that droplet transmission e.g. from coughs and sneezes as well as transmission from virus particles on surfaces are important. The significance of transmission via aerosols consisting of finer particles which may remain suspended in air and travel further distances than larger droplets is not well understood. This is reflected in the current guidance regarding the personal protective equipment required for endoscopy (a potentially aerosol generating procedure). This pilot study will recruit 25 patients with confirmed or highly probable COVID-19 who require an endoscopy. Air filtration samples, environmental samples and patient swabs will be collected.
These samples would be analysed to assess presence of virus via PCR and where possible presence of viable virions by culture. Patient swabs tested with PCR will provide matched data on the presence of virus in the upper respiratory tract or lower gastrointestinal tract at the time of procedure.
Transmission of SARS CoV-2 within hospitals is a recognised issue. Increased scientific understanding of whether infective aerosols are produced during endoscopy will inform infection prevention and control guidance and help protect patients and staff. This will be increasingly important as semi-urgent and routine endoscopies are resumed following the initial stage of the pandemic.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/EE/0245
Date of REC Opinion
2 Nov 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion