Recent Developments in Cardiology Procedures for Adult Congenital Heart Disease: The Anesthesiologist's Perspective

Anaesthesia for minimally invasive cardiac procedures in the catheterization lab

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The share of cardiac procedures performed in settings involving nonoperating room anaesthesia (NORA) continues to grow rapidly, and the number of publications related to anaesthetic techniques in cardiac catheterization laboratories is substantial. We aim to summarize the most recent evidence about outcomes related to type of anaesthetic in minimally invasive cardiac procedures.

RECENT FINDINGS

The latest studies, primarily focused on transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVr), demonstrate the need for reliable monitoring and appropriate training of the interdisciplinary teams involved in this high-risk NORA setting.

SUMMARY

Inappropriate sedation and concurrent inadequate oxygenation are main risk factors for claims involving NORA care. Current evidence deriving from TAVR shows that monitored anaesthesia care (MAC) is associated with shorter length of stay and lower mortality.

The Electrophysiology Laboratory: Anesthetic Considerations and Staffing Models

The electrophysiology laboratory facilitates complex procedures on patients, many of whom have advanced disease processes and extensive comorbidities. Historically, nurses administered sedation as required, but in recent years a shift to anesthesiologist-led sedation has been promoted for patient safety and advanced therapeutic considerations. Uncertainty remains, however, regarding whether the electrophysiology laboratory is best staffed with general or cardiothoracic anesthesiologists. In this article, the authors discuss the anesthetic considerations of some commonly performed electrophysiology and structural cardiac procedures and the pros and cons of staffing with general or cardiothoracic anesthesiologists.