The Year in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia: Selected Highlights from 2022

Area of Science:

• Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesiology
• Perioperative Medicine
• Medical and Surgical Cardiology

Background:

• This article presents the 15th annual review of research highlights in cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesiology for 2022.
• It synthesizes key advancements and trends from the past year to inform clinical practice and improve patient care.
• The review focuses on critical updates relevant to perioperative management in this specialized field.

Approach:

• The authors systematically reviewed and analyzed significant research published in 2022 within cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesiology.
• Major themes were identified and categorized for a comprehensive overview of the year's progress.
• The review synthesizes findings from diverse areas including critical care, cardiology, and surgical interventions.

Key Points:

• COVID-19 therapies evolved, including medical management, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and lung transplantation for high-risk patients.
• Advances in medical cardiology include new insights into coronary disease, heart failure treatments, and outcomes of novel statin therapy.
• Developments in mechanical circulatory support (MCS) address temporary right- and left-sided support, focusing on optimal deployment timing.
• Cardiac surgery updates cover concomitant valvular surgery and optimal approaches for coronary artery disease treatment.

Conclusions:

• Key updates in 2022 research offer significant insights for cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesiology.
• These advancements aim to enhance the understanding and management of complex patient conditions.
• The information provided is intended to improve perioperative outcomes for patients undergoing cardiothoracic and vascular procedures.