For nearly 60 years ultrasonography has been in use in clinical medicine. Over the past few decades the use of ultrasonography in anesthesia has increased. As imaging machines improve in technology and the use of ultrasonography becomes everyday practice, patients are benefiting in terms of safety, comfort and cost. The number of hands on workshops to teach anesthesia providers the proper use of ultrasonography is an indication of the importance and popularity of the technique.
An excellent article by Jonathan P. Kline, CRNA, MSNA titled “Ultrasound Guidance in Anesthesia” and published in the AANA Journal (AANA Journal, June 2011, Vol. 79, No. 3) gives a comprehensive overview of ultrasonography in Anesthesia. The author describes the history of imaging, scanning techniques and use of the Doppler mode. Most important, the author describes the use of the technique for the following specific procedures:
- Central line placement
- Spinal and epidural placement
- Regional blocks
- Perivascular injections
This comprehensive review reinforces the knowledge of those already experienced in the use of the ultrasound and tweaks the interest of those who have yet to learn the technique. As ultrasonography becomes main stream in anesthesia practice, patient expect their provider to be skilled with the technique.
Click here to read the original articles and view the pictures.