Systems Anesthesiology: Systems of Care Delivery and Optimization in the Operating Room

Abstract

Anesthesiology presents a challenge to a traditional simplifying approach given the ever-increasing amount of medical data and a more demanding environment. Systems anesthesiology is a modern approach to perioperative care, integrating the complexity of multifactorial knowledge and data to achieve a more adequate representation of reality, while including both patient-related medical aspects as well as economic and organizational challenges. We discuss the value of some innovative technologies such as the emergence of anesthesia information systems, the use of tele-medicine, predictive monitoring, or closed-loop systems as it pertains to the changes in the current standards of care in anesthesiology. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of systems anesthesiology in operating room planning, anesthesia research, and education.

Keywords: Leadership; Operations management; Perioperative care; Systems anesthesiology.