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Published on: August 17, 2022
A cross-sectional online survey evaluating how anaesthesiologists view cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging
Kady Fischer1, Raul Harms1, Josef Nunzio Fini1
1Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
Background:
Cardiovascular complications are a leading cause of perioperative adverse outcomes, particularly in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. Anaesthesiologists routinely assess cardiovascular risk preoperatively, yet the use of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) findings in this context remains unclear. This study evaluated how anaesthesiologists perceive and use preexisting CMR findings for perioperative risk evaluation.
Methods:
We conducted an online survey for anaesthesiologists. The primary endpoint was incorporation of CMR findings into perioperative decision-making, with secondary analyses examining factors associated with CMR use and understanding of CMR parameters.
Results:
A total of 455 anaesthesiologists from 32 countries completed the survey. Most were board certified (84%), and 56% indicated cardiovascular or thoracic anaesthesiology (CVA) as a clinical activity. Overall, 68% reported incorporating findings from CMR reports for perioperative risk assessment at least sometimes, with no difference in use between respondents specialising in CVA and those who do not (69% vs 67%; odds ratio 1.17 [95% confidence interval 0.84-1.63]; P=0.36). Although left ventricular anatomy and function were widely incorporated (72%), understanding of advanced tissue characterisation markers was limited, particularly among non-CVA anaesthesiologists. Notably, 74% agreed that CMR holds potential for perioperative risk evaluation, and 54% expressed interest in its future integration.
Conclusions:
Among respondents to this voluntary survey, CMR findings were frequently reported as being incorporated into perioperative risk evaluation, including those without CVA specialisation. However, use remains focused on conventional functional metrics, with limited knowledge of advanced CMR markers. Further research linking CMR parameters to perioperative outcomes, alongside targeted education initiatives, is needed to enable evidence-based implementation in anaesthetic practice.
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