Haemodynamic Changes During Anaesthesia in the Prone Position, Evaluated Using Transoesophageal Ultrasound

Haemodynamic Changes During Anaesthesia in the Prone Position, Evaluated Using Transoesophageal Ultrasound

Transoesophageal ultrasound examination before and after prone position.

Patients undergoing spinal surgery in the prone position are anaesthetized and then an ultrasound probe is placed in the oesophagus and the heart physiology is examined. Following prone position the examination is repeated.

Inclusion Criteria:

• adult patients scheduled for spinal surgery in the prone position. Body mass index above 30.

Exclusion Criteria:

• significant cardiomyopathy or valvular disease
• heart rhythm other than normal sinus rhythm
• coagulopathy
• increased risk of oesophageal injury during probe insertion