Minute Zero: an essential assessment in peri-operative ultrasound for anaesthesia

In recent years, ultrasonography has gained unmatched importance in medical practice. After the initial use for central vascular access placement and regional anaesthesia, its application has expanded to airway, ocular, abdominal, lung and cardiac ultrasound, with the concept of point of care ultrasound (POCUS) gaining acceptability and applicability in the most diverse situations. In fact, it has recently been acclaimed as the fifth pillar to bedside evaluation [1].

Performing a POCUS-guided eva­luation has proved to be of value in emergency medicine, with studies demonstrating improved diagnosis and better outcomes [2]. Similarly, in critical care, systematic ultrasound evaluation has been shown to decrease the use of conventional diagnostic imaging tools and time on mechanical ventilation and improve the management of fluid therapy [3]. Recognition of the benefit of ultrasound evaluation in the perioperative period has been increasing. In fact, the need to master clinical ultrasound evaluation has led the Canadian anaesthesiology academic centres to issue recommendations regarding the scope of practice and required training for perioperative POCUS [4].