• R L Barber and S N Fletcher.
• Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK.
• Anaesthesia. 2014 Jul 1;69(7):764-76.

AbstractEchocardiography is migrating rapidly across speciality boundaries and clinical demand is expanding. Echocardiography shows promise for evolving applications in the peri-operative assessment and therapeutic management of patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery, whether it be elective or emergency. Although evidence is limited with regard to significant impact on outcomes from anaesthesia and surgery, there is little doubt about the validity and power of two-dimensional real-time viewing of cardiac anatomy and function. Echocardiography can be used to assist in decision-making along the entire peri-operative pathway, and is increasingly delivered by the previously referring physicians. The discussion around more widespread incorporation of cardiac ultrasound into anaesthetic practice must take into account competency, training and governance. Failure to do so adequately may mean that the use of echocardiography is poorly applied and costly.© 2014 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.

34 keywords...

hide…