(220) Head & Neck Tumors: Medical Care Delay Due to COVID-19

Introduction: COVID-19 presented an unprecedented challenge for healthcare workers and systems around the world. The aim of this paper is to investigate the
effect of COVID-19 pandemic on Advanced Head & Neck oncology patients and their management.

Methods: We report case series of advanced irresectable Head & Neck tumors patients who had been delayed accessing medical services in tertiary care hospital due to COVID-19 related issues from March 2020 to May 2021 and compare the number with the same period in last year. We also present their management and prognosis

Results: We found significant increase in number of advanced Head& Neck tumor cases in the pandemic. We discuss the involved factors and share the challenges and strategies that institutions should adapt and develop

Conclusions: New strict measures and guidelines are necessary to approach Head & Neck Oncology Patients during pandemic times keeping in mind the locoregional logistics