COVID-19 and nuclear cardiology: Introducing the ‘’forward”
virtual visit
Angelidis G, Valotassiou V, Psimadas D, Georgoulias P
Nuclear Medicine Laboratory, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
We read with great interest the recent review article by Kaushik A, et
al. concerning the potential role of digital health applications in the
present pandemic situation [1]. As the authors noted, alternative
tools are needed for the optimal management of cardiovascular patients,
avoiding unnecessary visits to health care facilities. The severe acute
respiratory syndrome – coronavirus – 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can invade the
cardiovascular cells, potentially causing life-threatening cardiac
impairment [2]. In particular, patients with pre-existing
cardiovascular diseases are characterized by a higher risk of adverse
cardiovascular events. Therefore, most of those referred for nuclear
cardiology techniques are expected to be at higher risk of developing
serious coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) complications. However, the
performance of the individually required diagnostic and follow-up
procedures is important [3].
Telemedicine applications have been used in public health emergencies,
leading to several advantages in terms of safety and efficacy. In the
field of nuclear cardiology, the initial evaluation of patients’ history
and clinical features can take place remotely (‘’forward” virtual
visit). This approach seems to be patient-centred (permitting an
adequate case assessment) and conducive to self-quarantine (protecting
patients, healthcare professionals, and the community from viral
exposure). Importantly, possible clinical presentations of COVID-19 may
be evaluated during the ‘’forward” virtual visit, as well as
information regarding travel and exposure histories. Moreover, local
epidemiological information may be used to adjust screening pattern, and
special measures could be developed (such as isolation in dedicated
‘’hot” rooms) for patients with high-risk features. After the
performance of the examination, telemedicine applications could be also
used for the consultation with the patients.
Telemedicine applications may contribute to a better adjustment of
nuclear cardiology services under the current demanding circumstances.
Of course, no telemedicine programme can be created overnight, but this
approach may be of value not only during the next months but also after
the end of COVID-19 pandemic [4]. For example, our nuclear medicine
laboratory is located in central Greece providing services to
inhabitants of mountain villages, and nearby small islands.
Consequently, the use of telemedicine applications could aid our
practice in the future as well, particularly during the winter months
when travelling by car or sea travels may be extremely demanding.