Perioperative Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) for Anaesthetists: Is It Time to Introduce Formal Training?

Br J Hosp Med (Lond). 2024 Oct 30;85(10):1-3. doi: 10.12968/hmed.2024.0398. Epub 2024 Oct 27.

Abstract

This article reviews point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in the perioperative period. Ultrasound-guided techniques for regional anaesthesia and vascular access have been well-established in anaesthesia for many years. However, integration of whole-body POCUS into UK anaesthetic practice remains limited. There is a growing body of evidence highlighting the benefits of POCUS throughout the perioperative period. Widespread use may help to improve patient care in anaesthesia.

Keywords: anaesthesia; perioperative; point-of-care ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anesthesiology* / education
  • Anesthetists / education
  • Humans
  • Perioperative Care / methods
  • Point-of-Care Systems*
  • Ultrasonography* / methods
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional / methods