Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 24, 2025

Author Spotlight: Enhancing Success of Ultrasound-Guided Neuraxial Anesthesia in Cases with Difficult Anatomy
Published on: January 31, 2025
Overview and Limitations of Database Research in Anesthesiology: A Narrative Review
Amir K Abdel-Kader1, James B Eisenkraft, Daniel J Katz
1From the Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.
Abstract:
The utilization of large-scale databases for research in medical fields, including anesthesiology, has increased in popularity over the last decade, likely due to their structured content and relative ease of access. These databases have been used in a variety of perioperative studies, including analyses of risk stratification, preoperative testing, complications, and cost. While these databases contain a wealth of information that allows for an abundance of research opportunities, there are unique limitations to their use. A comprehensive understanding will afford the anesthesiology researcher the knowledge and tools to not only better interpret studies that utilized these databases, but also to conduct analyses of their own. This review details the content and composition of these databases, highlights the advantages of and limitations to their use, and offers information about their access and cost.
Related Concept Videos
General Anesthesia: Overview
General anesthesia induces unconsciousness in the whole body, while the others target specific areas or sensations. It is administered to minimize adverse effects, maintain...
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Epidural Anesthesia
Since epidural anesthetics can be infused through an epidural catheter, all types of drugs, including short-acting ones, can be administered. Chloroprocaine and lidocaine are examples of short and long-duration anesthetics, respectively. Bupivacaine...
Parenteral Anesthetics: Overview
Documentation of Nursing Diagnosis
In some settings, data-driven computerized decision support systems are in place, allowing for more accurate nursing diagnoses. The database within one of these systems includes diagnostic labels defining characteristics, activities, and indicators for nursing. A nurse enters...
Inhalational Anesthetics: Overview
Stages of General Anesthesia

