Standard Post-Op –Negative Pre-Arrival Screen -Place HME filter over tracheostoma -Wear surgical mask over mouth and nose -Wear surgical mask over stoma with HME -Tie upper strings around neck, use additional extension string to connect the two lower mask strings together under the arms and behind the back. -If patient does not have a mask at home, wear a scarf or t-shirt over tracheostoma and HME filter. -Provide mask in clinic. -Expedited check-in -Proceed directly to designated exam room upon arrival
Any Reason for Visit -Positive COVID Pre-Arrival Screen -Do not come to clinic -Proceed straight to nearest ED or designated drive-through checkpoint for testing -Reschedule visit pending results
Dislodged TEP
-Same as standard postoperative instructions -Have patient place red rubber catheter or dilator in fistula if possible to preserve fistula and reduce aspiration risk
TEP Leak
-Same as standard postoperative instructions -If leakage is from center of TEP, have patient place TEP plug to reduce aspiration risk -If leakage around prosthesis, consideration of diet modification and the use of thickening agents
Cancer Surveillance or Concern for Recurrence
-Same as standard postoperative instructions -If bleeding is present causing coughing or aspiration risk, proceed to nearest ED, utilizing same precautions to cover tracheostoma, mouth, and nose