Use, Training, and Opinions About Effectiveness of Transesophageal Echocardiography in Adult Liver Transplantation Among Anesthesiologists in the United States

Abstract

Study Objective. Describe transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) use, preparatory training and opinions about clinical importance, and future training pathways in a sample of liver transplant anesthesiologists. Design. Online survey questionnaire. Setting. Liver Transplant Centers in the United States. Participants. Director of Liver Transplant Anesthesia or designated alternate respondent. Results. A total of 79 Directors or alternates from 111 (71%) centers were identified. There were 56 responses (71%) representing 433 transplant anesthesiologists who cared for 63.3% of liver transplant cases performed in 2015. Basic TEE certification was reported more frequently (64%) than advanced (53.6%). At least one team member used TEE in over 90% of responding centers. Most respondents (83.9%) agreed TEE provided unique and valuable clinical information but were equally divided about future training pathways (on the job learning vs basic TEE certification). Conclusion. TEE use in liver transplantation is growing with a substantial increase in basic TEE certified users. Transplant anesthesiologists support basic certification but an equal number believe there should be more applied training at the site of care.