Improving surgical outcomes: it is the destination not the journey.
Studies have demonstrated that optimising the circulating volume reduces morbidity after major surgery. This optimisation is usually achieved through maximisation of the stroke volume guided by oesophageal Doppler. New monitoring parameters of preload responsiveness using information from the arterial trace are now showing some promise in achieving the same goal. The present commentary examines these new parameters with respect to improving outcomes for the high-risk surgical patient.
Wilson
Jonathan
J
Department of Anaesthesia, York Teaching Hospital, Wigginton Road, York YO31 8HE, UK. jonathan.rjt.wilson@york.nhs.uk
Davies
Simon
S
D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D011182:Postoperative Care / Q000379:methods; D013318:Stroke Volume / Q000502:physiology; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome