Canadian journal of anaesthesia = Journal canadien d'anesthésie
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As progress has been made in the acquisition of cardiac images with transoesophageal echocardiography, the technique has moved from the confines of the cardiology laboratory into the operating room, the intensive care unit, and the emergency department. This has afforded anaesthetists the opportunity to become familiar with, and develop expertise in its practice. The purpose of this article is to present a review of transoesophageal echocardiography with reference to anaesthetic practice. ⋯ Although the benefit of transoesophageal echocardiography is intuitive in many clinical situations, in others, it has not been shown to improve upon presently existing monitoring techniques. The need for adequate training and collaboration with cardiology colleagues is emphasized.